Bolivia and Argentina Investigate Illegal Hunting Network Targeting Jaguars

Bolivia and Argentina are investigating an illegal hunting network responsible for killing jaguars, involving the Argentine company Caza & Safaris. Allegedly, wealthy hunters paid up to $50,000 for these excursions. Key figures in the network, including Jorge Néstor Noya and Spanish client Luis Villalba Ruiz, face serious legal charges. The investigation has revealed details of long-standing illegal activities threatening wildlife conservation.

Bolivia and Argentina have launched an investigation into an illegal hunting network that has resulted in the deaths of several jaguars. The Argentine company Caza & Safaris provided hunting packages, costing up to $50,000, to wealthy individuals from the United States and Spain, who traveled to Bolivia to participate in these activities. Disturbing images of hunters with jaguar carcasses have emerged, prompting scrutiny of the involved parties.

Following a police operation in August 2024, authorities seized over 3,000 hunting trophies and arrested seven individuals. In Bolivia, legal action has commenced against Jorge Néstor Noya, the alleged leader of the network, and his client, Luis Villalba Ruiz, accused of killing five jaguars in September 2023. They face severe charges, potentially leading to a prison sentence of up to 19 years.

Investigators are particularly interested in Villalba’s activities in the protected San Matías area, as his exact whereabouts remain unknown. The case was brought to light by lawmaker María Rene Álvarez, along with the activist organization Llanto del Jaguar and park ranger Marcos Uzquiano. Authorities are working to secure details related to Villalba’s travel to Bolivia.

Noya attracted international clients through conventions such as Safari Club International and Expo Cinegética in Spain. Notably, Villalba has described himself as “one of the few bow-and-arrow hunters left in the world,” having arrived in Argentina before reportedly entering the Bolivian jungle. The investigation also highlights other participants in these hunting safaris, raising questions about their involvement.

Operating since 1979, Noya’s network has conducted numerous illegal excursions into the Bolivian jungle. The organization is alleged to have utilized illegal taxidermy operations in Argentina, shipping animal remains labeled as trophies to clients. Recent developments indicate potential complicity among local officials, as evidenced by the removal of the director of the National Service of Protected Areas (Sernap).

The illicit hunting of jaguars has garnered international attention, with alarming reports detailing the operations of companies like Caza & Safaris that exploit protected wildlife for profit. Investigative efforts by law enforcement in Bolivia and Argentina have revealed a disturbing connection between wealthy hunters and coordinated illegal activities that threaten the conservation of endangered species. The ramifications of these actions underscore the need for stringent protective measures and accountability in wildlife management practices.

In summary, the illegal hunting network involving Caza & Safaris has entered a critical phase of investigation following the deaths of several jaguars. Authorities in both Bolivia and Argentina are taking significant steps to hold accountable those involved, including the potential complicity of public officials. This situation emphasizes the urgent need for enhanced conservation efforts and legal measures to protect endangered species from such exploitative activities.

Original Source: english.elpais.com