Recent developments reveal a troubling illegal hunting network that poses a grave threat to the dwindling jaguar population in Bolivia and Argentina. At the center of this investigation is Caza & Safaris, an Argentine company known for its high-end hunting packages, selling adventures for up to $50,000 to wealthy clients hailing from the United States and Spain.
Disturbing Evidence and Legal Actions
The issue began to gain attention when disturbing images emerged online, showcasing hunters proudly posing next to the corpses of slain jaguars. These hunters are reportedly associated with Caza & Safaris, located in Dolores, Buenos Aires. In response to mounting evidence, the Argentine Federal Police launched a comprehensive operation in August 2024, which led to the seizure of more than 3,000 hunting trophies and the arrest of seven suspects connected to these illicit activities. Amid this chaos, the Bolivian Prosecutor’s Office has also opened a case against Jorge Néstor Noya, an Argentine allegedly at the helm of these unlawful operations, and his Spanish accomplice, Luis Villalba Ruiz, who is accused of poaching five jaguars in Bolivia in September 2023.
Investigation and Network of Clients
Currently under house arrest in Argentina, Noya faces serious charges, including biocide and the destruction of national property. If convicted, he and Villalba could spend up to 19 years behind bars. In light of the situation, Santa Cruz’s department prosecutor, Alberto Zeballos, emphasized the need to locate Villalba, who had previously purchased a hunting package for the protected San Matías area, and investigators are actively tracking his recent movements.
The inquiry into these hunts revealed that Noya cultivated a network of clients through prominent conventions, such as those organized by Safari Club International (SCI) in the United States and Expo Cinegética in Spain. It’s suspected that he encountered Villalba at one of these industry events. Describing himself as a niche bow-and-arrow hunter, Villalba allegedly traveled from Spain to Argentina and then illegally crossed into Bolivia’s rich jungles to pursue jaguars.
Hope for Conservation Efforts
As authorities delved deeper into the scandal, several other Spanish nationals linked to these trips came to light through the incriminating photographs. One such individual, Eduardo Romero Nieto—a physician and wildlife museum owner—claimed he had accompanied Noya on hunting expeditions but staunchly denied any involvement in illegal acts. He expressed shock upon learning about Noya’s recent legal troubles.
Another individual featured in these controversial images is dentist Diego Romero Ferragut, though attempts to contact him for a comment have not yielded any success.
Caza & Safaris, which has been operating since 1979, reportedly conducted around 30 excursions into Bolivian territory. The remains of hunted animals were supposedly processed unlawfully in Argentina before being shipped out as trophies to unsuspecting clients. The recent dismissal of the head of the National Service of Protected Areas (Sernap) raises concerns regarding the level of awareness and possible complicity of public officials in such illicit operations.
Despite the dire circumstances, there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon. The united efforts of wildlife activists, legislators, and committed prosecutors embody a steadfast resolve against illegal hunting and a determination to safeguard endangered species and their natural habitats. With ongoing dedication and collaboration, there is optimism that conservation initiatives will thrive, ultimately allowing majestic creatures like the jaguar to reclaim their rightful place in the wild.
Source: Elpais
