Gwanggyo's 1m lizard remains at large; sewer search yields no results after three days

Authorities in Suwon, South Korea, are continuing a three-day search for a large monitor lizard, approximately 1 meter in length, that has been sighted in the Gwanggyo area.

The lizard was first reported near the Gwanggyo Hongjae Library on Thursday morning. Despite immediate searches by fire department and city officials, the animal has not been found. Similar sightings have been reported in the vicinity of the library's river, as well as near sewage facilities and apartment complexes in the Gwanggyo Well-being Town.

Officials suspect the lizard is a Nile monitor, classified as a CITES Appendix II endangered species. The owner of the lizard reportedly informed the city about losing the animal about a month prior, confirming its species. Nile monitors can grow up to 1.5 to 2 meters long, possess a strong bite, and may have mild venom. They are opportunistic predators, often found near water sources.

The Han River Flood Control Office has also launched an investigation, visiting the search site and meeting with the reported owner. The investigation is focusing on whether the owner illegally kept the endangered species without proper registration, which is a violation of wildlife protection laws and carries penalties of up to a 1 million won fine.

Authorities are urging the public not to approach or attempt to capture the lizard if sighted, but to immediately report it to emergency services or the city hall.

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If you find the lizard, please do not try to capture it yourself. Report it immediately to 119 or the city hall.