Exotic animals and over 3,900 rounds of ammunition seized along shoreline in Westmoreland, men being sought
Published:Monday | June 2, 2025 | 8:36 PM
The police are reporting the seizure of over 3,900 rounds of ammunition, a quantity of cigarettes and exotic animals along the shores of Whitehouse, Westmoreland today.
Two men who fled the scene are being sought by the police.
The seizure was made during an intelligence-driven operation by the Counter-Terrorism and Organized Crime Investigation Branch (C-TOC) along the Camp Hope and San San beaches.
Reports are that 5:00 a.m. investigators from C-TOC’s Special Operations Unit went to the location.
According to the police, two men were seen removing items from the shoreline.
Upon the approach of the police, the men fled, leaving behind two knitted bags and two makeshift cages containing 10 live and nine dead exotic parrots, as well as two squirrels.
The bags contained ammunition, which tallied more than 3,900 rounds, according to the police.
Several other items were seized including tools and more than 20 packs of uncustomed cigarettes, the police added.
The police say the National Environment and Planning Agency was immediately contacted and the animals were taken into their care.
Superintendent of Police, Victor Barrett, at C-TOC, lauded the efforts of the police, noting that the illegal importation of exotic animals can pose a significant risk to our environment.
“The illegal trade of exotic animals is a clear and present danger, to our public’s safety, national security, and environmental well-being. The JCF is aware of the threat posed by this trade and are pursuing those who are engaged in the act,” said Barrett.
Anyone with information that can assist the investigation is urged to contact C-TOC at 876- 967-1389, the National Intelligence Bureau at 811, Crime Stop at 311 or the nearest police station.
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