Castel Volturno: A royal python abandoned in a bag on the coast was rescued by the CITES Carabinieri.

Castel Volturno – An unusual and dangerous act of neglect has interrupted environmental monitoring operations along the Domitian Coast. A live Royal Python (Python regius), an internationally protected species, was found unattended inside a plastic bag, suspiciously left in the immediate vicinity of an ENPA animal protection vehicle.

The association's staff was engaged in a patrol service in the Castel Volturno countryside, a crucial activity currently focused on protecting the precious nests of the Caretta caretta sea turtle.

The rapid intervention of the CITES Carabinieri

Upon the discovery, the safety network was activated immediately. ENPA operators alerted the Carabinieri CITES Unit in Naples, the unit of the force specialized in wildlife protection and combating the illegal trafficking of protected species.

The military arrived promptly on site, proceeded to secure the specimen and initiated formal seizure procedures.

The police investigations

The Royal Python is fully listed in the Washington Convention, an international agreement that strictly regulates the trade and possession of endangered animals and plants. Since it is a reptile requiring specific climatic and dietary conditions and specific permits, the specimen was promptly entrusted to a specialized facility capable of ensuring its well-being and adequate veterinary care.

While the animal is now in safe hands, the incident has refocused attention on the serious problem of exotic animal abandonment, often purchased carelessly and then illegally disposed of. The Carabinieri CITES investigation continues unabated to identify the person responsible for this reckless act.