377 Exotic Animals Bound For Malta Seized In Sicily By Authorities

Italian authorities have seized 377 live exotic animals that were being transported towards Malta after discovering concerns over their welfare and possible breaches linked to the trade of protected species.

The seizure took place at the Port of Pozzallo in Sicily during joint checks carried out by Italy’s financial police and the Customs and Monopolies Agency near the boarding point for the catamaran service to Malta.

A Maltese citizen was found transporting 300 tortoises and 77 parrots inside a vehicle that lacked adequate space and temperature control to safeguard the animals’ health. Veterinarians from the Ragusa Health Authority were called to the scene and confirmed that the conditions were unsuitable.

Further investigations by the CITES Operations Team of the Catania-Fontanarossa Financial Police Company found that 76 of the animals belonged to species protected under the Washington Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, known as CITES.

The protected species included three macaw species and two cockatoo species: Ara macao, Ara chloropterus, Ara ararauna, Cacatua roseicapilla and Cacatua alba.

Italian authorities described the operation as one of the most significant seizures involving CITES-protected species, while warning that illegal trade in protected animals can harm ecosystems and legitimate markets.

The individual was reported to the Ragusa Public Prosecutor’s Office over alleged offences related to keeping animals in conditions incompatible with their nature and causing serious suffering. Authorities also reported alleged breaches under Italy’s law implementing the CITES agreement.

All 377 animals were confiscated and placed in the care of an amateur breeder who provided suitable facilities. Authorities noted that the person reported remains presumed innocent until a final conviction is issued.

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Source: Guardia Di Finanza