Huge Venomous Snake Trafficking Ring Busted in Florida

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has filed charges against eight individuals, accusing them of partaking in an illegal venomous snake trafficking ring in the Sunshine State. The men, who face dozens of misdemeanors and felonies, were arrested on January 12, 2023, after a three-year investigation known as “Operation Viper.”
In a press release, the FWC said that its undercover agents staged transactions involving nearly 200 snakes, representing 24 species from seven different global regions. Among the species trafficked were bushmasters, Gaboon vipers, cobras, puff adders, and green mambas. “Some of these snakes are among the most dangerous in the world,” said Maj. Randy Bowlin, FWC Investigations and Intelligence Section Leader. “Florida’s rules and laws are in place to protect the public and prevent tragedies from occurring.”
Huge Venomous Snake Trafficking Ring Busted in Florida