Authorities Seize Crocodile and Exotic Animals in Cancún Market Raid

Cancún, Quintana Roo — Authorities seized a crocodile and other exotic animals from an illegal market in Cancún following citizen complaints about wildlife trafficking.

The Benito Juárez municipal government, through its General Directorate of Ecology led by Fernando Haro, conducted a coordinated operation at the Supermanzana 100 market, known locally as the “tianguis de la 100.” During the inspection, officials discovered the illegal sale of a Morelet’s crocodile (Crocodylus moreletii), a bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps), and a veiled chameleon (Chamaeleo calyptratus) at a market stall.

The operation involved the Directorate of Commerce and Street Vending Services, the Citizen Security Department, and the Municipal Institute for Animal Protection and Welfare in a joint effort to combat practices that threaten biodiversity and animal welfare.

Authorities seized the wild and exotic animals for safekeeping and will transfer them to the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (PROFEPA), the competent authority for their management. Domestic rodents found at the site were also taken into custody by the Municipal Institute for Animal Protection and Welfare.