German customs officials seized approximately 1,500 young tarantulas concealed inside packages of chocolate sponge cake that arrived from Vietnam at Cologne Bonn airport. The shipment was discovered following a noticeable odor that differed from expected chocolate scents. Many tarantulas did not survive, potentially violating German animal welfare laws, while the remaining were transferred to an expert handler. Criminal proceedings are underway against the recipient for import duty evasion and improper customs declarations. Insect smuggling into Europe is a recurring issue, as seen in a related case involving Kenyan teens with 5,000 ants.
Customs officials in Germany seized approximately 1,500 young tarantulas hidden inside chocolate sponge cake boxes shipped from Vietnam to Cologne Bonn airport. The discovery was made after officials noticed a 'noticeable smell' that was not consistent with the confectionery treats.
Cologne customs office spokesman Jens Ahland stated that the seizure left even experienced officials speechless. He emphasized the extraordinary nature of the find and expressed sadness over the exploitation of animals for profit.
Many tarantulas did not survive the journey, raising concerns about potential violations of German animal welfare regulations. Such insect smuggling into Europe is frequent, as evidenced by a recent case where two teens were fined or sentenced to prison in Kenya.
Criminal proceedings have been initiated against the intended recipient of the tarantulas in the Sauerland region for failing to pay proper import duties and for not making appropriate customs declarations.
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