HYDERABAD: The forest officials of Medchal district and the Anti-Poaching Squad of Hyderabad have seized two snakes, which include a python and a bronze back snake, after the youth who smuggled the reptiles put up a photo on Facebook to attract buyers.

The officials on Monday seized the two snakes from a residence in Venkatradri township at Chowdarguda village in Ghatkesar mandal.





One Sharan Moses had been keeping the snakes for the last one month intending to sell them illegally. His friend, V. Praveen, also a resident of Venkatradri township got himself photographed with the python around his neck and uploaded the picture on Facebook and WhatsApp to attract prospective buyers.

However, the photo reached the forest officials instead of the buyers. The officials said that the python was healthy as the accused had fed it with non-vegetarian food.

The forest officials seized the two snakes from their premises and booked a case under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

A Python is a Schedule–I species and possessing and illegal trade attracts imprisonment of 3 to 7 years and a minimum fine of Rs 10,000. The two accused have been sent to judicial custody before the Metropolitan Magistrate Court, Ranga Reddy.