Residents of the Los Manguitos neighborhood in Chiapas have reported a suspected mass poisoning of domestic and stray animals, which has so far claimed the lives of at least 32 animals, including 8 dogs and approximately 24 cats.
According to Yuridia Ortega, a resident of the area, the effects of the suspected toxin are immediate and lethal. “We didn’t even have time to take them to the vet; the fall is instantaneous. They ingest it or inhale it and die within minutes,” she explained. Given the severity of the situation, residents have begun organizing to identify those responsible and prevent further cases.
Among the actions taken are patrols at different times of day, reviewing recordings from private security cameras, and requesting access to images from the C4 system. Ortega also reported that a formal complaint has been filed with the Environmental Prosecutor’s Office and health risk authorities.
Personnel from these agencies have visited the area to interview residents and gather information to aid the investigation.
As part of preventative measures, video surveillance cameras have been installed at strategic points throughout the neighborhood to expand monitoring and detect suspicious activity.
Residents warned that the risk is not limited to animals, as the poison was placed in parks and public spaces frequented by children. They recalled similar incidents in other municipalities that have resulted in serious consequences for children.
Another affected resident noted that several of the poisoned animals were fed and cared for by neighborhood residents who perform community service such as sterilization, vaccination, and basic care. “It has been a very difficult situation; we have even had to bury several of them,” she said.
Finally, the residents urged the community to remain vigilant, strengthen community collaboration, and report any suspicious activity. They also asked the authorities to closely monitor the case and apply the corresponding sanctions if those responsible are identified.
Source: 24-horas
