Profepa and Army rescue 20 wild animals after operation in Durango; two Bengal tigers are secured

Profepa and the Army rescued 20 wild animals during an operation in Durango, including two Bengal tigers, according to authorities. The operation was carried out by institutions under the Cabinet of Security in the municipality of Durango, state of Durango. The Federal Prosecutor’s Office for Environmental Protection (Profepa) reported that 20 wildlife specimens were secured precautionarily, with two Bengal tigers among them. The agency stated that these actions followed a public complaint regarding the commercialization of wild animals. In support of the Attorney General's Office of the Republic (FGR) within an investigation file, personnel from Profepa, along with members of the Army, National Guard, and FGR, conducted joint monitoring activities over three days to verify the legal possession and origin of the animals found in two residences. The operation began on June 16, when Profepa staff participated in a raid at a residence in the Las Huertas neighborhood, where they discovered two Bengal tigers held in confinement without proper safety measures. According to the report, the big cats showed signs of distress due to lack of water and food, as well as damage to their front claws. They were subsequently transported to a specialized facility for medical care. On June 17 and 18, inspections were conducted at another establishment located in the city center of Durango. Profepa noted that no legal ownership or provenance could be verified for eighteen of the animals. Among the species affected were: A savannah monitor lizard A three-horned turtle A soft-shelled turtle A mud turtle Four leopard geckos Two constricting boas Four green iguanas A spiny-tailed lizard A chameleon A water monitor lizard A Nile monitor lizard Of these, the mud turtle, soft-shelled turtle, and green iguana are listed under special protection in the NOM-059-SEMARNAT-2010 regulation. The three-horned turtle and the constricting boa are classified as endangered species. It is worth noting that the information released by Profepa does not currently specify whether individuals have been detained as a result of this inter-institutional operation. The operation was supported by multiple agencies working together to address illegal wildlife trade. The rescue efforts highlight ongoing challenges in enforcing environmental laws and protecting biodiversity. Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of public vigilance in reporting suspected violations. The presence of high-profile species such as the Bengal tiger underscores the severity of the issue and the need for sustained enforcement. As the investigation proceeds, further details on potential arrests or legal proceedings may emerge.