Story By: Ana Lacasa, Sub-Editor:  Joana Mihajlovska, Agency: Newsflash

This is the moment Spanish authorities seize over two dozen protected alligators and other reptiles leading to the arrest of three suspects for illegally-trafficking exotic animals.

The arrests were part of an operation dubbed ‘Euler’ carried out by the Spanish Civil Guard who raided a ranch in Sant Vicenc de Montalt located in the province of Barcelona in the autonomous community of Catalonia.

Agents found 21 turtles, three alligators, two snakes, and a chameleon which have been taken to a specialised centre where they can be cared for, according to a police report from 2nd December.

The video shows the moment agents enter the ranch and struggle to secure an alligator. The video cuts to show officers collecting further evidence and seize turtles before the video comes to an end.

Police discovered that the ranch had been equipped to hold large numbers of exotic animals with temperature and humidity control as well as several enclosures to keep the animals.

Three Spanish citizens, who have not been named, were arrested and charged with crimes against fauna, wildlife trafficking, having fake identification, and for belonging to a criminal organisation.

The investigation started when police detected a Spanish citizen arriving in Barcelona from Seychelles with 76 Aldabra giant tortoise (Aldarachelys gigantea) hidden in his luggage.

They traced their destination to the ranch where they found the now-seized exotic animals.

The investigation continues.

The ViralTab page is created by and dedicated to professional, independent freelance journalists. It is a place for us to showcase our work. When our news is sold to our media partners, we will include the link here.