Authorities Uncover Major Wildlife Trafficking Operation
In a significant crackdown on wildlife trafficking, Spanish police arrested a couple suspected of breeding and selling exotic cats. The arrests took place in Manacor, Majorca, after authorities discovered 19 exotic cats on their property, including a desert lynx and two servals.
Illegal Animal Trade Exposed
The couple is accused of selling rare species such as white tigers, black leopards, hyenas, and pumas online. These animals were sold to buyers across the globe through internet platforms. Authorities also seized extensive records, including 40 animal passports from countries like Russia, Belarus, and China. In addition, police confiscated electronic devices such as computers, cellphones, and storage drives.
International Smuggling Network Unveiled
The investigation, led by Spain’s nature protection service (Seprona), began in March 2025. It revealed a global criminal organization operating in wildlife trafficking. This network included breeders, traffickers, and veterinarians. Authorities believe the operation in Majorca is just a small part of a much larger illegal trade.
Trafficking Routes Across Borders
The majority of the trafficked animals came from Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine. They were smuggled into the European Union via the Poland-Belarus border. One of the species offered for sale was a rare clouded leopard, valued at €60,000 ($68,000).
Rescue and Relocation of Seized Animals
The seized animals, including 16 mixed-breed species, were temporarily housed at the Safari Zoo de Son Servera in Majorca. They will eventually be rehomed in Alicante, on mainland Spain. Many of these species require large living spaces and can pose risks to humans due to their wild nature.
Traffickers Breeding Dangerous Species
Authorities also revealed that traffickers had been attempting to breed wild species, such as the desert lynx, with domestic cats. This was done in an attempt to create less dangerous but exotic pets. However, this practice poses both ethical and safety concerns.
Criminal Charges and Legal Consequences
The couple faces several serious charges, including wildlife crimes, smuggling, falsifying documents, and involvement in a criminal conspiracy. These charges place them at the center of one of the largest international wildlife trafficking rings uncovered in recent years.
The EU’s Role in Illegal Wildlife Trade
The International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) states that the European Union is one of the largest destinations for illegal wildlife and a major transit hub for illicit wildlife trade. The recent arrests highlight the ongoing challenges authorities face in combating this global issue.
