The NSW Government’s Biodiversity and Heritage Regulator (BHR), working alongside NSW Police, has seized 86 native animals as part of an ongoing investigation into an alleged wildlife trafficking syndicate operating between Port Stephens and the Central Coast.
The BHR’s Specialist Investigation Section (SIS) has been investigating an alleged organised syndicate involved in the off-licence and illegal trade of protected native reptiles.
The operation follows a search warrant executed by SIS in Nelson Bay in June 2026, during which investigators seized numerous native reptiles as part of the same investigation.
On Wednesday 5 August 2026, BHR investigators, assisted by NSW Police and partner agencies, executed a search warrant at a residential property in Dora Creek. Investigators seized a total of 86 native animals, including 76 reptiles, nine frogs and one bird.
Among the seized animals were 22 venomous snakes, including a Coastal Taipan, King Brown Snake, Death Adders, Tiger Snakes, Red-bellied Black Snakes, Brown Tree Snakes, Marsh Snakes and a Strap-snouted Brown Snake.
Investigators also seized three Woma Pythons, an endangered Green and Gold Bell Frog population, a Goldfields Shingleback and several Blue-tongued Lizards. An exotic Leopard Gecko was also located at the property and seized by the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD).
The operation involved officers from the BHR’s Specialist Investigation Section, Wildlife Licensing, Investigations and Enforcement teams, NSW Police, DPIRD compliance investigators and an expert reptile handler.
The investigation remains ongoing. SIS investigators will continue targeting individuals allegedly involved in the illegal trade of protected native wildlife across NSW.
Quotes attributable to BHR Chief Regulatory Officer Adam Gilligan:
“This operation builds on the Biodiversity and Heritage Regulator’s ongoing investigation into an alleged organised wildlife trafficking syndicate operating in NSW.
“Working alongside NSW Police and our partner agencies, we’re targeting those allegedly involved in the illegal trade of protected native wildlife and disrupting these criminal networks.
“The illegal trafficking of native wildlife is a serious crime that threatens biodiversity, compromises animal welfare and can present significant risks to public safety.”
Quotes attributable to BHR Principal Investigator Scott Beaumont:
“This seizure included a significant number of highly venomous snakes, many of which require specialised handling, secure containment and strict legal controls.
“Investigations indicate this matter forms part of a broader alleged wildlife trafficking syndicate, and our inquiries are continuing.
“We will continue working closely with NSW Police, DPIRD and other partner agencies to identify and disrupt those involved in the illegal trafficking of native wildlife.”
Quotes attributable to Lake Macquarie Police District Commander, Superintendent Tracy Chapman APM:
“Criminal activity involving protected wildlife can pose serious risks to public safety and has no place in our community. The unlawful possession and movement of native animals, particularly highly venomous species, can place both the public and emergency responders at risk.
“This operation demonstrates the value of intelligence sharing and coordinated enforcement between the NSW Police Force and specialist regulatory agencies. Working together enables us to identify offending, disrupt criminal activity and protect the community.
“Those seeking to profit from the illegal trade of native wildlife should expect to be identified and investigated, with appropriate action taken where evidence of offences is established.”
