Illegal wildlife trade rescues in Costa Rica and Argentina

In Coto Brus, Costa Rica, an anonymous tip led authorities to arrest a suspect found carrying an endangered squirrel‑monkey (Saimiri oerstedii) in a backpack. The animal, listed as threatened under resolution R‑SINAC‑CONAC 092‑2017, was transferred to a certified rehabilitation centre for veterinary evaluation and possible re‑release.

In Monserrat, Argentina, a coordinated raid by environmental prosecutors, the investigative police and local animal‑protection agencies rescued 23 cats of Balinese and Siamese breeds from an illegal breeding facility. The operation followed a neighbor’s complaint and resulted in charges against the breeder under the national animal‑cruelty law 14.346. The rescued cats were placed with animal‑welfare NGOs for care.

Both incidents illustrate intensified law‑enforcement actions against illegal wildlife and animal‑trade operations in the two countries.