Massive Ammo and Exotic Animal Seizure Along Westmoreland Shoreline

Whitehouse, Westmoreland — A significant police operation in Westmoreland has resulted in the seizure of over 3,900 rounds of ammunition, a quantity of uncustomed cigarettes, and several exotic animals, as law enforcement intensifies its crackdown on organized smuggling activities.

The operation, led by the Counter-Terrorism and Organized Crime Investigation Branch (C-TOC), took place around 5:00 a.m.  on Monday, along the Camp Hope and San San beaches in Whitehouse. According to police reports, officers from C-TOC’s Special Operations Unit were acting on intelligence when they observed two men removing items from the shoreline.

Upon noticing the approaching officers, the men fled, leaving behind two knitted bags and two makeshift cages. A search of the items revealed more than 3,900 rounds of assorted ammunition, 20 packs of uncustomed cigarettes, tools, and several exotic animals — including 10 live and nine dead parrots, along with two squirrels.

The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) was contacted and has since taken the surviving animals into care.

Superintendent Victor Barrett of C-TOC praised the operation and reiterated the danger posed by the illegal trade in exotic wildlife.

“The illegal trade of exotic animals is a clear and present danger to public safety, national security, and environmental well-being. The JCF is aware of this threat and remains committed to pursuing those involved in such activities,” Barrett stated.

The police are actively searching for the two men who escaped the scene and are urging anyone with information to contact C-TOC at 876-967-1389, the National Intelligence Bureau at 811, Crime Stop at 311, or the nearest police station.

Authorities are continuing investigations and say the seizure highlights the growing link between arms trafficking and environmental crimes.