Mexico rescues 138 wild animals in historic anti-trafficking raid
Mexican authorities have rescued 138 wild animals in a major crackdown on illegal wildlife trafficking. The five-day operation covered seven southeastern states, targeting high-risk poaching zones and protected natural areas.
Teams from Profepa, supported by 150 security personnel, carried out inspections and patrols across the region.
The operation involved 45 Profepa inspectors working alongside security forces. They set up checkpoints and reviewed over 300 vehicles, boats, and public transport units. Active patrols were conducted in Quintana Roo, Veracruz, and Tabasco.
In Yucatán, 103 wild animals were seized for lacking proper permits or proof of legal acquisition. Among them were 45 jaguarundis, 32 ocelots, 28 pumas, 18 white-lipped peccaries, and 15 monkeys—including 8 howler monkeys and 7 spider monkeys. In Oaxaca, authorities confiscated 20 bottles of mezcal containing preserved animal specimens, along with 34 live animals and a crested caracara. Meanwhile, in Chiapas, a spider monkey was voluntarily surrendered, and four scarlet macaws were relocated to a wildlife conservation unit. Profepa also responded to three reports of illegal wildlife possession in Campeche. There, inspectors seized a single white-nosed coati.
The operation resulted in the recovery of 138 animals across seven states. Many of the rescued species are protected under Mexican law. Authorities continue to monitor high-risk areas to prevent further illegal wildlife trade.
