From Bolivia, they request the extradition of Jorge Noya, an Argentine identified as the alleged leader of an international network of hunting and wildlife trafficking.
Noya, who presents himself as a “professional hunter” with over 40 years of experience, operated through his company “Caza & Safaris”. He offered hunting expeditions in protected areas of Bolivia, Argentina, and Brazil.
He remains under house arrest in Argentina for illicit association, animal abuse, and depredation of wildlife.
## Hunting and Wildlife Trafficking: The Case of Jorge Noya
Bolivian authorities accuse him of biocide and destruction of natural heritage, after identifying him as responsible for hunting several jaguars in the San MatÃas National Park, in the department of Santa Cruz.
On the other hand, the Argentine justice system has processed him for illicit association, animal abuse, and depredation of wildlife, imposing house arrest.
During the operation carried out in August 2024, 44 firearms, 12 vehicles, and over 7900 hunting trophies were seized, including taxidermies, horns, and skins.
The complaint was filed by the former park ranger and environmental activist Marco Uzquiano, lawyer Rodrigo Herrero, and the representative of the Jaguar’s Cry Collective, Lisa Corti.
According to investigations, Noya made over 30 irregular trips to hunt jaguars in the Bolivian jungle. Additionally, other members of the network were identified, such as Federico Manuel Testa, Noya’s alleged partner, who also faces charges in Bolivia.
## How the Illegal Hunting Organization Operated
The organization operated since 1979, offering packages of up to 48,000 euros to hunt wild animals, including endangered jaguars.
Sources close to the investigation told La Nación that the hunter had devised a modus operandi in which clients were attracted, the desired specimen was obtained, weapons were rented, and the “trophy” or taxidermized animal was arranged to be sent.
Allegedly, they operated in Argentina, Bolivia, and Brazil. The network was dismantled thanks to the collaboration between the prosecutors and environmental agencies of the three countries, although there are concerns that it may still be operating clandestinely.
This case highlights the seriousness of wildlife trafficking in Latin America and the urgent need to strengthen conservation laws and policies to protect endangered species such as the jaguar.
