Public Hunt for Underground Reptile Market Ends with Shocking Discovery
Ashford, UK – A public hunt for the whereabouts of an underground reptile and amphibian market, planned for July 13th, 2024, came to a shocking conclusion last Friday. After the initial cancellation of the event at a school in Gillingham, organisers announced that it would take place at the Ashford International Hotel. The event details were released privately to members of the secretive organising group, the Amphibian and Reptile Group (ARC), on Friday evening after council offices had shut down.
However, the excitement of the event was quickly overshadowed by the illegal activities taking place. Undercover investigators from the Animal Protection Agency and Freedom for Animals gathered evidence of animal trading, an activity that is prohibited under a 1983 amendment to the Pet Animals Act 1951. Despite being advertised as an exhibition, investigators filmed the selling and offering of animals for sale at discounted prices. Stallholders, including licensed pet shops, openly displayed a wide range of reptile and amphibian species alongside their business names and banners. It was also discovered that animals were available for purchase, with cash or card payments being accepted. The evidence of this unlawful activity will be handed over to Ashford Borough Council.
The treatment of animals at the event was appalling, and unfortunately, not uncommon at reptile markets. Investigators captured footage of wild animals cramped in small plastic containers, with no access to food, water, or shelter. This type of environment inevitably leads to animal suffering. Animal rights groups were taken aback that a 4-star hotel would allow such notorious activities to take place on their premises. Earlier in the week, the Ashford International Hotel was contacted, along with other potential venues, and made aware of the public appeal for information. However, the General Manager refused to confirm or deny if the event was scheduled to take place at the hotel.
Elaine Toland, Director of the Animal Protection Agency, expressed her disappointment and shock at the hotel’s involvement, stating, “The hotel was given advance notice of what was likely to take place at this event. We had already obtained evidence of criminal activity and passed it on to Ashford Borough Council, resulting in the cancellation of the event at the school in Gillingham. Ashford International Hotel, what were you thinking?!”
Laura Walton, Campaigns Manager for Freedom for Animals, added, “Our investigators found what they always find at these events: animal suffering and activities that we consider to be criminal. So, no surprises there! What does come as a surprise is that the Ashford International Hotel would host such an event, especially given the well-documented problems with reptile markets and the public outcry they generate.”
Dr Charlotte Regan, Wildlife Campaign Manager for World Animal Protection, also weighed in on the issue, stating, “Every individual reptile or amphibian sold at one of these markets is a sentient animal, not a product to be exploited for money. Reptile markets are inherently associated with a number of serious welfare issues that can cause significant animal suffering. They are outdated events that should have no place in our society.”
Studies have shown that reptile markets pose a severe risk to public health due to the close proximity of people to animals and the post-event contamination of venues. Animals that are sick and stressed are more likely to shed pathogens and spread diseases, with vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, and the elderly at the highest risk. This risk is further increased by the prevalence of reptile-related salmonellosis.
The Ashford International Hotel has yet to release a statement in response to the shocking discovery made at their premises. However, animal rights groups are calling for stricter regulations and an end to these outdated and inhumane events. The public is encouraged to report any information or sightings of illegal animal trading to their local council or animal welfare organisations.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.