Kent crackdown on illegal reptile trade
A crackdown on people trading in endangered reptiles and amphibians such as rare tortoises and newts has led to 78 addresses in Kent being searched.
Kent Police said several premises were found to be breaching regulations. There were no arrests but inquiries are continuing, officers added.
Wildlife crime officers targeted retail and wholesale outlets.
Pc Michael Laidlow said anyone found to be breaching regulations could face a prison sentence.
He said the majority of trade in reptiles and amphibians in the county was being done legally.
Traders of protected endangered species needed to show they were imported lawfully into the EU or derived from such sustainable stock, he said.