Playa del Carmen, Q.R. — Seven exotic animals being used for photographic purposes have been seized by authorities along Fifth Avenue of Playa del Carmen.
On Wednesday, the Public Prosecutor initiated an investigation for animal abuse after a complaint was filed. Authorities found that the animals were being exhibited outside an establishment located on Fifth Avenue.
The Attorney General of the State of Quintana Roo reported that in all, eight men were arrested and seven exotic animals seized which included five cats and two monkeys. In their possession, federal authorities found a black panther, two Bengal tigers, one of which was an albino, a jaguar and a lion.
Taken into custody were Alfonso S, Isaí M, Carlos G, Jesus H, Bersain M, Gabriel A, Alvaro J and Fredi R. The animals were seized and transferred to the General Prosecutor’s Office where they were delivered to the corresponding environmental authorities.
The animals were delivered to el Arca-Zona Jaguarto in Tulum where they will receive the protection and care they require.
