Spanish authorities have arrested two people and placed eight others under investigation in connection with an exotic animal trafficking network that illegally transported protected wildlife across international borders.
The Guardia Civil launched the investigation in late 2025 after receiving intelligence about suspected wildlife crimes operating out of Seville province in southern Spain.
Officers intercepted a suitcase at Seville’s San Pablo Airport containing several animals protected under international wildlife trade regulations. The creatures were allegedly being transported without proper documentation or permits.
Subsequent raids on five residential properties and three industrial premises across Seville resulted in the seizure of 256 animals covered by international wildlife trade controls and conservation measures.
Among the confiscated animals were savannah monitors, large lizards native to commonly sought in the exotic pet market. Police also recovered red-eyed tree frogs from Central American rainforests, spectacled caimans native to Latin America, and an albino green iguana, a rare colour variant highly prized by collectors.
Officers discovered 61 dogs and 28 cats at the premises, which authorities believe were being bred for illegal sale outside regulated channels.
During the searches, police seized €56 965 (about R 1 073 000) in cash from one property, which investigators suspect was directly linked to the trafficking operation.
ALSO READ: Four arrested for illegal possession of pangolin
Authorities believe the criminal network relied on employees of parcel delivery companies who facilitated the transport of live animals and allegedly falsified shipping documentation to avoid detection.
The investigation continues as authorities work to identify additional members of the trafficking network and trace the origin and intended destination of the seized animals.
Spain serves as a major transit point for illegal wildlife trafficking between Africa, Latin America and European markets, where exotic animals can fetch high prices from collectors willing to circumvent legal protections.
ALSO READ: Exotic pet trade flourishes in China despite welfare and safety concerns
