Police arrest couple for breeding and selling exotic cats in Spain

CNN - Apr 15th, 2025
Open on CNN

Police in Spain have arrested two individuals suspected of breeding and selling exotic cats from a property in Manacor, Majorca. This operation, led by the Guardia Civil, uncovered 19 exotic cats, including a desert lynx and two servals. It revealed a global criminal network involving breeders, traffickers, and veterinarians. Authorities seized animal passports from Russia, Belarus, and China, along with electronic devices used in the operation. The investigation, initiated in March, revealed the couple's online activity and connections to an international wildlife trafficking network. The seized animals have been temporarily relocated to a zoo in Majorca and will be permanently rehomed in Alicante, Spain.

The story highlights the broader issue of illegal wildlife trade, with the European Union being a significant destination and transit hub. The accused face charges of wildlife crimes, smuggling, document falsification, and criminal conspiracy. The incident underscores the challenges in combating wildlife trafficking, a lucrative illegal business that threatens biodiversity. The Guardia Civil's operation is a significant step in addressing the trade in endangered species, which are protected under international agreements like CITES. This case also brings attention to the risks posed by breeding exotic animals for the pet trade, both to the animals themselves and to human safety.

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RATING

7.4
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The article provides a detailed and timely report on the arrest of individuals involved in the illegal trade of exotic animals. It effectively utilizes information from a credible source, the Guardia Civil, to present a factual account of the events. The story is clear and engaging, capturing the reader's attention with its focus on a global wildlife trafficking network.

However, the article could benefit from additional perspectives to enhance balance and depth. Incorporating viewpoints from animal rights organizations, legal experts, or conservationists would provide a more comprehensive understanding of the issue. The inclusion of interactive elements or multimedia could also increase reader engagement and comprehension.

Overall, the article succeeds in raising awareness about an important public interest issue, though it could improve in areas of balance and controversy by exploring the ethical dimensions and including diverse viewpoints.

RATING DETAILS

8
Accuracy

The article provides a detailed account of the arrest of two individuals in Spain for breeding and selling exotic cats. The story accurately cites the location of the arrest (Manacor, Majorca) and the involvement of the Guardia Civil, which adds credibility to the report. The specifics about the seized animals, such as the inclusion of a desert lynx and servals, align with the police statement, adding to the story's accuracy.

However, some claims require further verification, such as the alleged international network involving breeders and veterinarians. The report mentions the smuggling of animals into the EU from Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine, which should be cross-referenced with official records or corroborated by additional sources. The mention of animal passports and the specific species offered for sale, like the clouded leopard, also necessitates verification.

Overall, the article is largely accurate, but some elements need confirmation from independent sources to ensure the precision of all claims made.

7
Balance

The article primarily presents the perspective of law enforcement, specifically the Guardia Civil, which provides a strong factual basis. However, it lacks viewpoints from other stakeholders, such as the accused individuals, animal rights organizations, or legal experts, which could offer a more balanced view of the situation.

While the story does mention the potential dangers and legal implications of exotic animal trade, it could benefit from additional perspectives on the ethical and environmental impacts of such activities. Including quotes or opinions from conservationists or wildlife experts would enhance the depth and balance of the report.

The article does not exhibit overt bias but could improve by incorporating a broader range of viewpoints to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the issue.

8
Clarity

The article is well-structured and easy to follow, with a logical flow that guides the reader through the key points of the story. The language is clear and concise, making the complex issue of wildlife trafficking accessible to a general audience.

The use of direct quotes from the Guardia Civil adds clarity and authority to the report. However, some technical terms, like CITES, could be better explained to ensure all readers understand their significance.

Overall, the article is clear and well-organized, but could benefit from additional explanations of specific terms and broader context to enhance reader comprehension.

8
Source quality

The article relies heavily on information from the Guardia Civil, a credible and authoritative source in this context, which strengthens the reliability of the report. The use of official statements provides a solid foundation for the claims made about the arrests and the nature of the alleged crimes.

However, the story would benefit from additional sources to corroborate the claims of an international trafficking network and the specifics of animal smuggling routes. The inclusion of data or commentary from international wildlife organizations or independent experts would enhance the credibility and depth of the reporting.

Overall, the source quality is strong, but diversification of sources would improve the story's comprehensiveness and reliability.

6
Transparency

The article is transparent in its reliance on the Guardia Civil's statement, clearly attributing information to this source. However, it lacks transparency in terms of the methodology used to gather additional information or verify claims about the international trafficking network.

The report could improve by disclosing any potential conflicts of interest or biases in the sources used. Additionally, providing more context on the legal framework surrounding the trade of exotic animals and the role of CITES would enhance transparency.

While the article is clear about its primary source, further context and disclosure about how the information was obtained would increase transparency and trustworthiness.

Sources

  1. https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/spanish-police-arrest-people-linked-cat-smuggling-ring-120816960
  2. https://www.itv.com/news/2025-04-15/couple-arrested-in-spain-accused-of-breeding-exotic-cats-and-selling-them-online
  3. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/couple-arrested-selling-exotic-cats-white-tigers-pumas-spain/
  4. https://www.thisisthecoast.co.uk/news/world-news/exotic-cat-smuggling-ring-uncovered-by-police-in-spain/
  5. https://www.sabrasradio.com/news/world-news/spanish-police-arrest-two-people-linked-to-cat-smuggling-ring-in-mallorca/