AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION 24 June 04 Two Cambodians arrested for stealing crocodiles
Two Cambodians have been arrested and charged with stealing baby crocodiles from farms in the kingdom's north-west in a bid to feed their drug habit.
Police say Tol Kakda and Khun Polo, both 23, were arrested last week for stealing six of the reptiles from farms in Battambang province.
The deputy district police chief, Lach Long, says the men had fled their village in December last year after a failed bid to steal an adult crocodile.
Crocodile farming has boomed in recent years in Battambang and neighbouring Siem Reap province.
The meat is sold to local restaurants and the skin is used to make boots and leather garments.
Two Cambodians arrested for stealing crocodiles