Dead, waterless and weakened animals: see what is known about the rescue of more than 100 cattle and pigs in Igaratá

Four dead animals, more than 100 weakened cattle and pigs and a lack of water and food were some of the situations found during an inspection at a rural property in Igaratá, in the interior of São Paulo, this week.

In total, 117 animals were rescued from degrading conditions, removed from the site and taken to a farm, where they were under the care of a temporary caregiver. The rural owner was fined R$726,000 for ill-treatment.

According to the police, the incident of mistreatment was carried out on Tuesday (20), in the Boa Vista neighborhood, by the Military Environmental Police and the Agricultural Defense of the State of São Paulo, following a report of mistreatment.

According to the inspection bodies, the animals were in poor hygiene and feeding conditions. The property also showed signs of degradation, with excessive mud and areas without cover to protect the herd from rain and sun.

The case was registered by the Civil Police, which must interview the person responsible for the property. The investigation also investigates possible signs of work similar to slavery involving a couple of workers who lived on site.

During the inspection, the teams found two dead cattle and two dead pigs. Another 117 animals were extremely thin, trembling, apathetic and had difficulty moving around.

According to the agents' report, the troughs were empty and the water available for the animals had a greenish color and the presence of larvae and flies.

Inspectors also found a mixture of decomposing soybeans and orange pomace inside an abandoned swimming pool, exposed to the sun and rain.

Some of the cattle and pigs were confined in areas without cover, on mud and waste. The conditions were considered unsuitable for the maintenance of the animals.

In total, 117 animals were emergency removed from the property: 97 cattle and 20 pigs. They were taken to a farm made available for temporary shelter. The four animals found dead were buried with the help of a city hall excavator, after forensic work.

The fine was imposed by the Environmental Military Police for mistreatment of animals. According to the corporation, the value was doubled because the property is located in an Environmental Protection Area (APA). In addition to the administrative penalty, the case was forwarded to the Civil Police to investigate a possible environmental crime, provided for in article 32 of the Environmental Crimes Law.

The owner was not on site during the inspection. According to police records, he was in Praia Grande, on the coast of São Paulo, and should be called to provide clarification. The Civil Police reported that they were still awaiting the expert report to assess the conditions of the animals and, if technically possible, clarify the cause of the deaths.

The inspection also raised suspicions about the living conditions of a couple of workers who lived on the property. The situation, however, still needs to be investigated by the authorities. The police report states that the caretaker was heard as a witness. Until that moment, the Civil Police had not identified sufficient elements to attribute criminal responsibility to him for the mistreatment. The investigation seeks to clarify who was responsible for handling, feeding, supplying water and caring for the animals.