Thief steals snake from Coventry pet shop

Police want to find a slippery customer after a snake was stolen from a Coventry shop.


Click to enlarge

An 18ins carpet python was swiped from a hatch at Coventry Aquatics in Daventry Road, Cheylesmore.

It is understood the snake, which is native to Australia and New Guinea, was popped into a carrier bag and carried out of the store, while staff were distracted by a group of youngsters.

The incident took place between 3.45pm and 4.30pm on Wednesday, March 9.

The snake is not venomous but can grow up to two metres when kept in captivity.

Staff noticed the animal was missing as they followed their feeding and watering regime the following morning.

After checking the snake hadn’t been sold, staff reviewed the CCTV footage.

Managing director Robin Hopkins explained security at the city shop has since been tightened.

He said: “We are now having to put locks on all of our hatches.

“People will have to ask a member of staff if they want to view an animal.

“They will then be taken to a separate room where they will be able to handle the animal in a closed environment.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE OF THIS STORY