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Two Petrer Men Referred to Court Over Illegal Release of Yacare Caiman at Almansa Reservoir

The CITES-listed reptile was captured in July, remaining in specialized care at Madrid Zoo.

Overview

  • SEPRONA of the Guardia Civil identified the suspects, ages 29 and 35, after a months-long investigation.
  • Authorities accuse them of unauthorized release of a non-native species, illegal possession of a protected animal, and animal abandonment.
  • The investigative file has been delivered to the Juzgado de Instrucción in Almansa for judicial proceedings.
  • Witness reports on July 9 described a crocodile sighting, causing alarm among bathers and anglers at the reservoir.
  • The caiman was captured with help from the Almansa Fishermen’s Society and Castilla-La Mancha environmental agents before transfer to Madrid Zoo, with potential penalties including up to two years in prison, fines, and disqualification.