Mexican Forces Seize 135 Exotic Animals and 68,000 Liters of Diesel in Tamaulipas

Tampico, Tamaulipas — Federal forces have seized 135 exotic animals, including endangered species, and approximately 68,000 liters of diesel during raids in the municipalities of Tampico and Altamira, Tamaulipas.

The operation was led by the Mexican Navy (Semar) in coordination with the Federal Prosecutor’s Office, the Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection and state authorities, as part of an investigation into the illicit fuel market. Authorities executed five search warrants at a storage center, a clandestine gas station, a residence, a workshop and a ranch. One person was detained.

Endangered species among animals found at ranch

The largest seizure occurred at a ranch, where investigators found 135 exotic animals, including five Bengal tigers, three jaguars, a liger, 21 spider monkeys, two hyenas, three African lions, bison, sulcata tortoises, buffalo and a camel.

At least 35 of the animals are listed in a risk category under Mexico’s official environmental standard NOM-059-SEMARNAT-2010, according to authorities. Among them are Mexican spider monkeys, jaguars, an ocelot, a green macaw and American bison, all classified as endangered. The seizure also included desert bighorn sheep, a green iguana and an Aztec parakeet, species subject to special protection.

Some of the animals, including Bengal tigers, a mandrill, a lemur, African lions and sulcata tortoises, are regulated under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). All the animals were placed under the custody of the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa), which will handle their assessment, shelter and specialized care.

Diesel, weapons and equipment also seized

At the other properties, authorities seized approximately 68,000 liters of diesel, a tractor-trailer, two tanker trucks, a pickup truck, two frac tanks, two tanker lorries, four pressure pumps, two reactor tanks and four storage tanks. Investigators also found a motor pump, hoses and various containers believed to be used for storing and handling illegally obtained fuel, as well as communications equipment, two firearms and ammunition.

The detained person was read their rights and, together with the seized items, was turned over to the federal prosecutor’s office, which will determine their legal status. The five properties were secured and remain under official control while the investigation continues.

Security officials described the operation as part of Mexico’s National Security Strategy and reiterated their commitment to fighting fuel theft and protecting wildlife.