A major operation against the illegal trade in exotic animals was carried out by the Civil Guard in the province of Ávila. As a result of law enforcement actions in the village of Burgohondo, 472 rare animals were discovered and seized, including leopard tortoises, Mediterranean and African spurred tortoises, iguanas, various geckos, tarantulas, and Nile monitors. Experts estimate the total value of the seized animals at over €85,000.
The investigation began last summer when conservation specialists noticed suspicious activity on social media. Their attention was drawn to an organization presenting itself as an animal rescue charity. However, behind the façade of caring for nature was a well-organized illegal trafficking scheme involving rare species.
Network of fake transfers and illegal activity
Most animals arrived in Burgohondo from across the country. The trail leads to Madrid, Badajoz, Valencia, Sevilla, Toledo, Zaragoza, Huesca, and Ciudad Real. Transportation was carried out in violation of all regulations, with forged documents for the animals. The organizers not only profited from sales and exchanges but also actively collected donations, promising sponsors online promotion.
In addition, people were working at the shelter under the guise of volunteer programs and training courses without being officially registered. This allowed the organizers to save on taxes and social contributions, as well as expand their operations without attracting extra attention from oversight authorities.
Charges and next steps
As a result of the investigation, four individuals are now under prosecution. They face a range of charges, including environmental violations, smuggling, fraud, document forgery, and participation in a criminal organization. The operation was carried out with support from environmental protection experts and representatives of the ministry responsible for ecology and demographics.
All case materials have already been handed over to the Avila court and the environmental prosecutor’s office. The fate of the seized animals will be decided separately: some of them are expected to be sent to specialized centers where they can receive proper care.
