Hundreds of animals intended to be taken to Malta seized in Sicilian port
Italian police seized 300 tortoises and 77 parrots in a vehicle preparing for a trip to Malta at Sicily's Pozzallo port.
During an inspection by the Italian financial police at the port of Pozzallo in Sicily, 300 tortoises and 77 parrots were found crammed into the trunk and interior of a car preparing to go to Malta. Legal proceedings were initiated against a Maltese citizen regarding the incident.
Inspection at Pozzallo Port
Italy's financial police carried out routine checks near the boarding area of the catamaran heading to Malta at the port of Pozzallo in Sicily.
During the inspections, it was determined that a large number of animals were being transported inside a vehicle deemed suspicious.
Transported Under Inappropriate Conditions
It was determined that the animals inside the car were crammed in inappropriate conditions, lacking adequate space and temperature control.
Hundreds of living creatures seized by security forces were placed under protection and delivered to a breeding facility.
Protected Species and Legal Violations
In detailed checks conducted by veterinarians, it was determined that 76 of the seized parrots were under protection within the scope of international trade regulations.
Legal proceedings were initiated against the Maltese suspect for mistreating animals, keeping them in conditions contrary to their nature, and violating international trade laws regarding protected species.