The haul was intercepted at Chopin Airport by officers of Poland’s National Revenue Administration (KAS), who stopped a man arriving via Abu Dhabi after he passed through the “green channel”, indicating he had nothing to declare.
A subsequent inspection revealed 361 pieces of coral skeletons, made of limestone and weighing close to five kilograms.
According to customs officials, the traveller said he had collected the coral fragments on a beach in the Seychelles as souvenirs. However, the specimens are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which strictly regulates the movement of endangered plants and animals, including corals.
Because the man did not have the required CITES permits, the coral was confiscated and treated as evidence in a criminal investigation.
Polish authorities say proceedings were launched under national nature protection laws, which prohibit the intentional destruction, removal or transport of protected species and their habitats.
Penalties can include fines, restrictions on liberty or imprisonment.
Customs officials used the case to remind travellers that taking natural souvenirs from beaches or reefs can have serious legal and environmental consequences.
“Instead of collecting coral, it’s better to take a photograph,” the authorities said, noting that pictures are both legal and harmless to fragile ecosystems.
(mp)
Source: KAS/X/@KAS_GOV_PL