KUALA LUMPUR – Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan) has detained two individuals to assist in investigations regarding the possession of a python without a valid license.
The arrest of the two local men follows a viral case involving the release of two pythons into a drain along Jalan Persiaran Putra Permai, Putra Heights, in Subang Jaya recently.
Selangor Perhilitan director Wan Mohd Adib Wan Mohd Yusoh said the department received a complaint from the Putra Heights Police Station on Tuesday.
“Following the complaint, Selangor Perhilitan, with assistance from the Putra Heights Police Station, conducted an inspection at the residence of the individuals involved.
“The inspection led to the discovery of a reticulated python that was still alive.
“The suspect failed to produce any valid documentation for the possession of the pythons,” he told Sinar Harian on Wednesday.
He added that the two suspects, aged 53 and 35, were detained under the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010 (Act 716) (Amendment A1646) and have been released on police bail while investigations continue.
He also warned that the uncontrolled release of wildlife could pose dangers to the local community and environment.
“The possession of wildlife without authorisation is an offence under the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010. If members of the public encounter wildlife in residential areas, they are advised to contact Perhilitan for appropriate action,” he said.
He further urged the public to exercise caution if they come across wildlife and to refrain from taking matters into their own hands.
“Any complaints or information regarding wildlife can be reported to the department through the Perhilitan Hotline at 1-800-88-5151 or via e-Complaint at www.wildlife.gov.my,” he said.
Earlier, the police confirmed receiving a report from a local man on February 3 after coming across the viral video.
Investigations revealed that the pythons were released in mid-January. – February 12, 2025