Prison guards intercept cat with drugs taped to its body outside Pococí Penitentiary
SAN JOSÉ, COSTA RICA — In a bizarre and unsettling turn of events, Costa Rican prison officials intercepted a cat being used to smuggle narcotics into a high-security facility — a tactic authorities believe may be part of a growing trend involving animals in organized drug trafficking efforts.
On the night of May 6, guards at the Pococí Penitentiary in the country’s Limón province spotted a black-and-white feline prowling suspiciously along the perimeter fence. What caught their attention were patches of fur that appeared altered, revealing what turned out to be a crude attempt at concealment.
Upon apprehending the animal, officials discovered drug packets securely taped to its back.
Drug haul found strapped to cat’s body
The Costa Rican Ministry of Justice and Peace confirmed the discovery and released a video of the incident that quickly went viral on social media.
“On the night of Tuesday, agents from the Prison Police at Pococí Prison managed to rescue a kitten that had two drug packages taped to its body. An officer stationed in one of the watchtowers spotted the animal in a grassy area and immediately raised the alarm,” the ministry said in a statement.
An inspection of the parcels revealed nearly 236 grams of marijuana, 68 grams of heroin paste, and two rolling papers — a notable quantity considering the stealthy method of delivery. Authorities swiftly removed the packages, effectively foiling the smuggling attempt.
Animal welfare and investigation underway
The feline was handed over to the National Animal Health Service for a medical checkup to ensure it had not been harmed. Meanwhile, jail authorities have launched a full-scale investigation to identify the individual or network behind the operation.
Officials are currently reviewing CCTV footage to trace the cat’s movements and determine its entry point, as well as any possible collaboration with individuals outside the prison.
A growing tactic in the war on drugs
Though this may sound like a one-off headline, Costa Rican prison officials suggest the incident reflects a disturbing trend. According to local authorities, inmates have previously used cats as unsuspecting drug mules — either by luring them in with food or by training them to return to the prison grounds with contraband strapped to their bodies.
This incident comes amid a broader surge in crime and narcotics trafficking in Costa Rica. In 2023 alone, officials seized over 21 tons of cocaine, underscoring the country’s growing struggle against organized drug operations that are becoming increasingly creative — and brazen.
As prison authorities tighten surveillance and investigations intensify, one thing remains clear: even the most innocent-looking creatures are not off-limits in the evolving playbook of criminal innovation.
