Russian Couple Arrested for Smuggling and Selling Exotic Big Cats in Spain
Spanish authorities have apprehended a Russian couple linked to the illegal sale of exotic cats, including protected species like white tigers, clouded leopards, and pumas, as reported by the Civil Guard on Monday. Following a raid at their residence in Manacor, Mallorca, officials seized a total of 19 animals and arrested the couple on charges of wildlife crimes, smuggling, organized crime, and document falsification.
The suspects, a 48-year-old man and a 46-year-old woman, were found to be advertising these exotic species online, reportedly charging around €60,000 for each animal. Authorities also discovered more than 40 counterfeit animal passports from various countries, including Russia, Belarus, and China, during the raid.
In addition to the couple, a 48-year-old Israeli individual is under investigation for possible involvement in the operation, which initially came to light in March 2024. The Civil Guard had become aware of the couple breeding servals, caracals, and hybrids of domestic cats for sale through social media platforms.
The Civil Guard emphasized that this couple's operation merely scratches the surface of a larger international criminal organization connected to animal breeders, transporters, and veterinarians. Many of these animals were reportedly smuggled into the European Union from countries like Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine, entering through Poland's border with Belarus before being moved using forged documents.
The trend of breeding exotic felines as pets is rising, particularly in Eastern Europe, but it has begun to spread to other regions, according to the Civil Guard. The seized animals are set to be relocated to a rescue and rehabilitation center for exotic mammals located in Alicante, eastern Spain.
This operation raises pressing concerns over wildlife trafficking and the dangers posed by breeding and owning exotic animals as pets. As awareness grows, the importance of protecting these endangered species becomes critical in preventing illegal trade and ensuring their survival.
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