A four-foot-long reptile was seized by police on Thursday as two people were arrested on suspicion of drugs and weapons offences.
The caimen, a type of Alligator, was found by Essex Police searching an address in Aveley, near Grays and has been handed over to the RSPCA.
A significant cannabis haul and several weapons, including knives, were also discovered and seized.
A 36-year-old man, from Purfleet, was arrested on suspicion of production of cannabis, contravention of the Dangerous Wildlife Act and possession of an offensive weapon.
Meanwhile, a 35-year-old woman was arrested for the same offences as well as on suspicion of possession with intent to supply drugs.
Both have since been released under investigation.
Inspector Dan Selby, from Essex Police, said: “Drugs cause misery in our communities and we work hard to tackle their production and sale.
“We know this matters to the public and we value our neighbourhoods so these issues matter to us.
“We are also ensuring the welfare of the caiman and have left it in the hands of the RSPCA.”
Follow STV News on WhatsApp
Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
