Spanish authorities arrested Russian suspects involved in selling exotic animals online in the Spanish island of Mallorca. This illegal activity poses a danger to both buyers and animals alike. The couple used forged documents to transport the animals from their original habitat.
The couple was arrested with 19 wild cats in their possession, including a white tiger and a black one. It is believed they were trafficking the animals to produce hybrid breeds to sell them at high prices. The animals were transferred to a zoo before being transported again.
The breeding of exotic animals is a highly specialized field. The couple is facing accusations of wildlife crime, trafficking, and document forgery. Security forces indicated that the animals were from Eastern European countries, all carrying forged documents. The investigation into this criminal operation, which began in March 2024, is ongoing.
