Bolivia and Argentina Investigate Illegal Hunting Network Targeting Jaguars
Bolivia and Argentina are investigating Caza & Safaris, an illegal hunting network offering costly packages for wealthy clients to hunt endangered jaguars. The resulting scrutiny led to multiple arrests and seizure of illegal trophies. Efforts include tracking down involved parties and examining potential corruption among officials. The case highlights the ongoing issues of wildlife trafficking and need for stricter regulations in protecting endangered species.
Authorities in Bolivia and Argentina are investigating an illegal hunting network responsible for the deaths of jaguars. Caza & Safaris, an Argentine company, offered luxury hunting packages up to $50,000 for affluent clients from North America and Europe, who hunted endangered species in Bolivia. Recent viral images show hunters posing with jaguar carcasses, escalating concerns and prompting government action against the group.
In August 2024, Argentine police seized over 3,000 illegal hunting trophies and arrested several individuals linked to Caza & Safaris. Bolivia’s Prosecutor’s Office has initiated an inquiry into Jorge Néstor Noya, allegedly the group’s leader, and Spanish customer Luis Villalba Ruiz, believed to have hunted five jaguars in Bolivian territory. Both face significant prison sentences for their alleged crimes.
Noya reportedly marketed his group at hunting conventions abroad, attracting wealthy clientele. Evidence suggests Villalba purchased a hunting package for a protected area in San Matías, although his whereabouts remain unclear. Investigators seek further flight details from Bolivian immigration authorities to trace his actions.
The network has been operational since 1979, conducting confirmed hunting trips to Bolivia and illegally processing animal remains for sale. The scandal also implicates possible corruption within Bolivian public institutions, leading to the dismissal of a top official. Police operations have uncovered multiple illegally hunted species, raising flags about broader wildlife trafficking activities.
The investigation into Caza & Safaris comes against a backdrop of increasing international awareness regarding the disappearance and endangerment of species like the jaguar, which is listed as endangered by the IUCN. Illegal wildlife trade has been a persistent issue, particularly in regions like Bolivia, where poaching and illegal hunting have significant impacts on biodiversity. This case highlights the intersection between luxury hunting tourism and environmental crimes, showcasing the challenges authorities face in curbing illegal activities.
The ongoing investigation into Caza & Safaris underscores the serious implications of illegal hunting networks operating across borders. The case reveals the need for stricter enforcement of wildlife protection laws and international collaboration to address poaching and trafficking. Both Bolivia and Argentina are taking steps to hold those responsible accountable, promoting awareness of the importance of conserving endangered species like the jaguar.
Original Source: english.elpais.com
