As part of an ongoing crackdown on illegal wildlife trafficking, 11 rare lizards were seized on Sunday during a joint enforcement operation in Ashkelon. The raid was carried out by detectives from the Southern Border Police unit and inspectors from the Israel Nature and Parks Authority (INPA).
Protected Species Under Israeli Law
The raid took place at a private residence, where authorities found several species of lizards prohibited by law, including the Spiny-Tailed Monitor, the Kimberley Rock Monitor, and the Egyptian Uromastyx. All are classified as protected wildlife under Israeli legislation.
The animals were immediately transferred to INPA custody, examined by a veterinarian, and are now being held in a secure facility. The homeowner was detained for questioning, and officials are investigating the circumstances behind the illegal possession.
The Israel Nature and Parks Authority issued a statement:
“Possessing protected species without proper permits is a criminal offense. We will continue to take firm action to protect wildlife and pursue those who hold or harm animals illegally.”
The public is encouraged to report cases of illegal wildlife possession by calling the INPA hotline at *3639 or contacting the Israel Police at 100.
