Environmental Crime Team Cracks Down on Wildlife Smuggling in Calamvale Arrest

Authorities recently cracked down on an illegal wildlife smuggling operation, sentencing a woman to 18 months in prison for attempting to export 22 native reptiles without a permit, violating Australia’s national environment law. Under the law, offenders face severe penalties, including up to 10 years in jail, fines of up to $330,000, or both.

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The Queensland Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water’s Environmental Crime Team arrested Yinan Zhao following a search in Calamvale earlier this month.

Authorities launched an investigation into Zhao’s activities after discovering that she had sent 13 parcels containing native wildlife overseas from Queensland and New South Wales in 2023. A search of Zhao’s Calamvale property revealed nine native reptiles, including the rare granite belt thick-tailed gecko. Officers also uncovered unused parcel boxes and materials commonly associated with the illegal trade of animals.

The Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation has taken custody of the seized reptiles to ensure their welfare and protection.

Zhao’s arrest was part of a broader operation known as Operation Calypso, initiated in October 2023. This ongoing investigation is focused on the smuggling of Australia’s native wildlife to Hong Kong, a growing concern for environmental authorities.

Queensland officials have been working closely with Australia Post, the Australian Border Force, and the Queensland Police Force to combat the illegal wildlife trade.

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Authorities warned that criminal networks often recruit individuals, particularly students, by advertising jobs that require no experience and promise high pay with flexible work hours. These unsuspecting recruits are then instructed to mail parcels containing native reptiles, unknowingly becoming part of a larger smuggling network.

The Queensland government remains committed to protecting native wildlife and cracking down on environmental crimes. They encourage the public to report any suspicious activities related to wildlife smuggling.

The sentencing of Zhao serves as a warning to those involved in the illegal wildlife trade that authorities are actively monitoring and prosecuting offenders to preserve Australia’s unique biodiversity.

Published 23-March-2025