Investigation at the Łączna Zoo. The court did not agree to arrest the director

The District Court in Wałbrzych rejected the application for temporary arrest of the zoo owner, and instead he was placed under police supervision and property bail.

The four remaining people were charged but were not arrested - they were subjected to the so-called libertarian preventive measures.

What are the allegations about?

The prosecutor's office claims that as many as 561 animals were neglected at the zoo. According to investigators, the suspects consciously allowed them to be inflicted with pain and suffering by not providing appropriate living conditions, proper nutrition and veterinary care. During the inspection, buried bones of animals, mainly ungulates, were also found in the garden, the deaths of which have not yet been explained.

Authorities' intervention and crisis meeting

The situation at the zoo caused an immediate response from the authorities. The Lower Silesian Voivode ordered the mayor of Mieroszów to urgently convene the Municipal Crisis Management Team.

Officials check the number and condition of animals, their living conditions and the availability of veterinary care. Talks are also underway with other zoos in Poland about the possible relocation of animals.

Residents defend the zoo

Not everyone likes the decision to take the animals from the Zoo Łączna. Some residents tried to block the transport of animals, which resulted in police intervention. One person was fined and four were detained for violating the bodily integrity of officers.

Meanwhile, the prosecutor's office is appealing for support from animal organizations in relocating animals. Due to the controversy surrounding the case, some of them withdrew from previous declarations of aid. Without their support, the quick relocation of animals may be impossible.

How does the zoo owner defend himself?

The owner of the Łączna Zoo ensures that the garden operates legally, is subject to regular inspections and has had the status of a zoo since 2012. There are about 100 species of animals living in the zoo, including exotic tigers, kangaroos and milu deer.

The case is still under development. Investigators continue their investigation, and the fate of the animals depends on the decisions of the authorities and pro-animal organizations.