Investigation Launched into Illegal Jaguar Hunting Network in Bolivia and Argentina
Bolivia and Argentina are investigating Caza & Safaris for illegal jaguar hunting. An operation in August 2024 led to numerous arrests and the seizure of trophies. Key figures Jorge Néstor Noya and Luis Villalba Ruiz face serious charges, while evidence suggests systemic issues within the hunting network that illegally operated in protected areas.
Bolivia and Argentina are investigating a network involved in the illegal hunting of jaguars, primarily targeting wealthy clients from the U.S. and Spain. The Argentine company Caza & Safaris is at the center of this operation, which has been active since 1979, offering hunting packages costing up to $50,000. The network’s activities came to light when disturbing photos surfaced showing hunters with jaguar carcasses.
In August 2024, Argentine police seized over 3,000 hunting trophies and charged seven individuals for their involvement. In Bolivia, authorities are investigating Jorge Néstor Noya, alleged to be the leader of the network, and his Spanish client, Luis Villalba Ruiz, who reportedly killed five jaguars in September 2023. Their actions could lead to a maximum of 19 years imprisonment for charges of biocide and damage to national resources.
Evidence indicates Noya attracted clients through conventions like Safari Club International and Expo Cinegética. He possibly met Villalba at one of these events, where Villalba described himself as a rare bow-and-arrow hunter. His illegal excursions included entering protected areas in Bolivia to kill endangered jaguars, which are on the IUCN Red List.
The investigation has implicated other Spanish hunters who were photographed with carcasses, including Eduardo Romero Nieto, who denied illegal activities. The network has been operating for decades, with 30 confirmed hunting trips recorded, and the remains were processed illegally in Argentina before being exported as trophies.
The Bolivian investigation continues, with indications of possible complicity from public officials, highlighted by the dismissal of the National Service of Protected Areas director. The Argentine police operations also revealed a broader range of illegal hunting, including species like deer and wild boar.
The illegal hunting of endangered species poses significant threats to biodiversity and conservation efforts in South America. The bolstering of hunting expeditions marketed to wealthy enthusiasts from abroad exacerbates these risks. Countries involved are working to combat this through investigations aimed at uncovering illicit networks that exploit protected wildlife for profit, reflecting growing awareness of the need for legal accountability and wildlife preservation.
The investigation into the illegal hunting network highlights the serious implications of wildlife crime, particularly for endangered species like the jaguar. This case underscores the challenges that arise from international hunting tourism and the legal frameworks needed to protect wildlife. Strengthening enforcement and collaboration between nations becomes crucial in preserving natural resources and holding violators accountable.
Original Source: english.elpais.com
