A Rolls-Royce Phantom with an exotic cabin trim was imported for sale from Russia into Italy, but the deal fell through as the authorities discovered the origins of the trim materials used and seized the car.
Apparently, the owner had their ride furnished with crocodile leather stripped off a dying breed of crocodile. The Washington Convention expressly forbids all commercial use of such animals barring exceptional permission.
The court will now determine the fate of the vehicle. In all likelihood, the importer will be slapped with a lawsuit and the leather upholstery will be confiscated. Italian media believe the original owner of the car will be able to repossess it without the illegal trim after paying a €20,000 fine.
