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ZOO Łączna investigation: Five charged with animal cruelty
Authorities in Poland have launched a major investigation into the private ZOO Łączna in Mieroszów following allegations of animal cruelty and neglect. Prosecutors and police conducted raids on the facility, leading to the arrest of five individuals, including the zoo's owner, Marcin Nowaczyk. Investigators allege that 561 animals were subjected to suffering due to inadequate food, improper veterinary care, and insufficient living conditions.
During inspections, officials discovered buried animal bones on the premises and noted that exotic species were kept in temperatures unsuitable for their biological needs. As part of the intervention, approximately 33 animals, including a Bengal tiger and various exotic birds and mammals, were relocated to other facilities in Poland, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
Despite the prosecution's request for temporary arrest, a local court denied the motion for Marcin Nowaczyk, though the prosecution intends to appeal. Following recent developments, the zoo's staff has returned to the site to care for the remaining 667 animals, and management has been temporarily assigned to Marta Zając-Ossowska. The investigation remains ongoing.
Entities
Generalna Dyrekcja Ochrony Środowiska · Marcin Nowaczyk · Mariusz Pindera · Marta Zając-Ossowska · Mieroszów · Prokuratura Okręgowa w Świdnicy · Zoo Łączna · Zoo Łączna
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] Buried animal bones, specifically from ungulates, were discovered on the zoo grounds during inspections. www.infowet.pl · czadrow24.pl · zielona.interia.pl
- [● 4 SOURCES] Five people, including the zoo owner, have been charged with animal cruelty. www.goniec.net · www.infowet.pl · nowaruda24.pl · nczas.info
- [● 2 SOURCES] Inspections revealed a lack of adequate food supplies and insufficient heating for exotic species. czadrow24.pl · zielona.interia.pl
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Approximately 30 employees have returned to the zoo to resume care for the remaining 667 animals. zabkowice.pl
- [● 3 SOURCES] At least 33 animals, including a Bengal tiger and kangaroos, were relocated to facilities in Poland, Belgium, and the Netherlands. www.infowet.pl · dziennik.walbrzych.pl · zabkowice.pl
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Wałbrzych District Court denied the prosecution's request for the temporary arrest of owner Marcin Nowaczyk. nowaruda24.pl