Jamaican authorities are scrambling to locate a tiger cub that slipped away from security officials in Black River, St Elizabeth. The cub was discovered during an illegal wildlife smuggling operation off Jamaica’s southern coast.
According to the Jamaica Gleaner, a vessel carrying a bizarre mix of contraband was intercepted by the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) Coast Guard. Aboard the vessel were four monkeys, a dozen parrots, one tiger cub, and a stash of marijuana.
The unusual bust quickly turned into a community-wide alert when the cub escaped containment. The local news reported that the young tiger fled from the Black River port during processing. Authorities now believe the cub is roaming somewhere in the wider Black River area.
While the tiger may appear small, resembling a domestic kitten, the report warns it is still a wild animal and therefore has unpredictable instincts. The public has been urged not to approach or attempt to capture the tiger cub, which has a reddish-orange coat and signature black stripes.
According to the Jamaica Gleaner, the JDF, the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA), and the Veterinary Services Division are all a part of a coordinated search effort to locate and capture the cub. The JDF is urging anyone who spots the tiger cub to immediately contact the authorities at (876) 926-8121 (JDF), (876) 754-7540 (NEPA), or 119 (JCF).
Officials also sought to remind everyone about the dangers of importing undocumented animals. Importing animals without proper documentation violates the Endangered Species (Protection, Conservation and Regulation of Trade) Act of 2000, and it carries penalties of up to two million dollars in fines and/or a prison sentence of up to two years. Beyond legal consequences, officials warn that such actions can expose Jamaica’s ecosystem to harmful diseases.
There is currently no information regarding the smuggling ring behind the illegal cargo. In the meantime, residents of St Elizabeth are advised to remain cautious and keep a close eye on their surroundings.