Inmates in Bolivian prisons illegally make accessories from jaguar body parts. This was reported by researchers from the conservation organization World Animal Protection.
Jaguars are large New World cats with distinctive mottled fur. This species is listed in the international Red Book and hunting is prohibited in many countries. Bolivian law allows jaguars to be shot for loot, but prohibits their trade for commercial purposes.
As shown investigation Environmentalist Neil D’Cruz and his colleagues said some prisons in Bolivia have become centers for the production of objects from jaguars. Prisoners specifically sew hats, wallets, belts and other accessories. The skins of jaguars and other animals are bought locally, accessories are sold locally, and the profits are (at least in part) locked away. At the same time, the authors note that there is no reason to forcefully accept this labor – the convicts said that they voluntarily did it for money to earn a living. According to investigators, prison management is not fighting this phenomenon and is contributing to it. For example, in February, Prison director Mokowi invited the public to attend a craft fair held at the facility to purchase items made from natural objects, including jaguar body parts.
The authors of the investigation urge the authorities to end the illegal work in the workshops and point out that loot smuggling is one of the most important threats to rare animals.
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