Tigers, jaguars, bison among 135 exotic and endangered animals found in raid on fuel smugglers near U.S. border
Updated on: August 28, 2026 / 3:33 PM EDT / CBS/AFP
TL;DR
- Over 130 exotic animals, including tigers, lions, hyenas, a camel, jaguars, and buffalo, were rescued.
- Thirty-five of the animals are classified as endangered species.
- The animals were found at a ranch during raids on a fuel smuggling ring in Tamaulipas, Mexico.
- The operation also seized 18,000 gallons of diesel, fuel tanks, pumps, firearms, and tools.
- One person was arrested in connection with the fuel smuggling.
- Fuel theft (*huachicol*) is a significant revenue stream for Mexican cartels, according to the U.S. Treasury.
- U.S. authorities have taken measures, including sanctions, against individuals and companies involved in cartel-linked fuel theft.