Photo: General Administration of Customs

Huanggang Customs seized eight endangered ball pythons hidden on four travelers at Shenzhen's Futian Port,MK sport according to the General Administration of Customs of China on WeChat. 

Customs officers noticed a female traveler in a black polka-dot top appearing nervous and hurried during routine inspections, prompting further checks.

Closer inspection revealed two live snakes wrapped in cotton socks concealed in the traveler's underwear. Officers later found the same trick on three other female travelers.

The women stated they were hired to smuggle the snakes in exchange for handling fees. 

Department of Supervision on Animal and Plant Quarantine affiliated to Shenzhen Customs identified the eight snakes as ball pythons, listed under Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). 

The General Administration of Customs stated that importing or exporting endangered species or their derivatives without valid certification is prohibited under CITES and China's Wildlife Protection Laws and the China's Regulations on the Administration of Import and Export of Endangered Wildlife and Plants. Serious violations may lead to criminal charges. 

Global Times