Two young black bears found in captivity and showing signs of malnutrition were seized by Chihuahua state investigators near Ojinaga and turned over to federal environmental authorities, according to El Sol de Ojinaga.
Agents with Chihuahua’s State Investigation Agency, or AEI, carried out the operation Friday in El Oasis, a community in the municipality of Ojinaga, the news outlet reported.
The bears, estimated to be between 6 and 9 months old, were being held in captivity and appeared malnourished, according to authorities. Photographs released in connection with the seizure show investigators handling the animals near an armored AEI vehicle.
Following the seizure, the bears were transferred to the custody of Mexico’s Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection, known as PROFEPA, in the city of Chihuahua. The federal agency is responsible for enforcing the country’s environmental laws and protecting wildlife.
Authorities did not immediately provide details about how the bears came to be held at the property, whether anyone was arrested or cited, or what will ultimately happen to the animals.
Black bears are native to northern Mexico, including Chihuahua, and populations also occur across the border in West Texas.
The Chihuahua Attorney General’s Office said the operation was part of efforts by state investigators to prevent crime and promote compliance with the law.
— Source: El Sol de Ojinaga
