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4w ago

Düsseldorf Customs Confiscate Protected Crocodile Handbag from Ukrainian Traveler

Federal conservation authorities confirmed the bag’s material as endangered Sumpfkrokodil skin, prompting charges under Germany’s Nature Conservation Act.

Auf der Rückseite der Tasche befinden sich die herunterbaumelnden Krokodilsfüße
Eine aus einem streng geschützten Krokodil gefertigte Damenhandtasche mit Kopf und Beinen hat der Zoll bei einem Reisenden am Flughafen Düsseldorf beschlagnahmt. Das Accessoire wurde bei einem aus der Republik Moldau einreisenden Mann gefunden.
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Overview

  • A 65-year-old Ukrainian man living in Ahaus was detained on May 7 after arriving from Moldova via Düsseldorf Airport’s green channel.
  • His handbag, intended as a gift for his wife, caught officers’ attention for featuring a crocodile’s preserved head and feet.
  • Experts later determined the bag was made from Sumpfkrokodil skin, a species whose import into Germany is strictly prohibited.
  • A prosecution under the Federal Nature Conservation Act is now underway, exposing the traveler to potential fines or criminal charges.
  • Customs officials said the accessory will be handed to the Federal Agency for Nature Conservation after the case closes and warned travelers to verify animal-based souvenirs against conservation laws.