Smuggled tiger cub at large in Black River

A tiger cub believed to be among several animals being smuggled into the country is on the loose in the Black River area in St Elizabeth.

The Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) is seeking the public's assistance in capturing the animal.

The cub was aboard a vessel which was interdicted off the South Coast of Jamaica on Wednesday. The animal reportedly escaped during processing.

The JDF says the cub resembles a kitten and may appear to be harmless. However, the JDF warns that despite its size and appearance, it is a wild animal

and no attempt should be made to capture or tame it.

It can be identified by its reddish orange coat with distinctive black stripes.

The JDF is appealing to the public to be on the lookout for this tiger cub and, if it is seen, call the JDF at (876) 926-8121, the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) at (876) 754-7540 or the JCF (119).

The JDF is reminding the public that accepting and keeping animals brought into Jamaica without the proper permits is illegal.

"In addition to the physical dangers posed by these animals, they may also carry diseases that pose a threat to humans and local animal life," it states.

Meanwhile, the JDF says the vessel was also carrying four monkeys, 12 parrots, and a quantity of marijuana.

It says it is collaborating with NEPA, the Jamaica Constabulary Force, the Veterinary Services Department and other relevant state

agencies to locate the tiger cub that was brought into the island illegally.

Investigation into the smuggling incident is also ongoing.

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