Police discover alleged makeshift zoo in Collombatti home, including a saltwater crocodile, 38 snakes and three hedgehogs

A saltwater crocodile, three hedgehogs and a cobra were recently removed from a Collombatti home near Kempsey, along with numerous other exotic reptiles, cats and dogs.

The alleged makeshift zoo was discovered during a drug raid earlier this week.

A 39-year-old man has been charged with cultivating and selling cannabis as well as farming protected or illegal reptiles.

What happened: In November 2025, Raptor Squad officers first began an investigation into the alleged supply of drugs and possession of firearms near Kempsey.

• On Wednesday, February 4, a white Toyota Hilux was stopped and searched in Kempsey, and a 39-year-old man was arrested.

A short time later, investigators searched a property in Collombatti where police allege they discovered a large hydroponic cannabis set up, a firearm and a makeshift zoo.

Dozens of native and exotic reptiles: According to police, inside the home was a 1.3- metre saltwater crocodile, 38 snakes including a Cobra, 19 lizards, three hedgehogs, 28 dogs and nine cats.

• The animals were removed and placed into care.

Drugs and a rifle: 52 hydroponic plants, 11 kilograms of cannabis leaf with a street value of $85,000, as well as a rifle concealed inside the kitchen was also allegedly seized.

The 39-year-old man was taken to Kempsey Police Station where he was charged, refused bail, and will attend court on Thursday.

ℹ️ Anyone with information that may assist investigations into the supply of illicit drugs is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or visit https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.