Rescue Operation in Majorca Foils Exotic Cat Smuggling Network

Sat Dec 13 2025 23:52:42 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Spanish authorities apprehend a Russian couple and rescue 19 endangered felines during a police raid targeting illegal big cat trafficking.

In a significant operation on the Balearic island of Majorca, Spanish law enforcement rescued 19 exotic felines, including caracals and servals, from a home linked to a criminal network involved in the illicit trade of big cats. The authorities have arrested a Russian couple suspected of operating this smuggling ring that has connections across continents.

During the raid, law enforcement officials uncovered a disturbing scene of animal trafficking, including evidence of international sales and documents for over 40 additional animals from countries such as Russia, Belarus, and China. This illegal trade is often fueled by a growing demand for exotic pets, particularly influenced by their rising popularity on social media. “The operation has uncovered a global criminal organization involving breeders, transporters, and veterinarians,” the police stated.

Despite some aspects of the exotic pet trade being legal, the surge in demand has been detrimental to wildlife populations, with conservationists warning that illegal trafficking threatens both the animals' survival and global biodiversity.

The ongoing fight against illegal wildlife trade emphasizes the need for stricter regulations and greater public awareness about the responsibilities and consequences of exotic pet ownership.