Authorities in Costa Rica recently intercepted a bizarre case of drug smuggling involving a cat. The black-and-white feline was spotted near the Pococí Penitentiary with suspicious packages strapped to its body. Prison guards became alert after noticing the animal roaming through a green patch near the facility and quickly moved to investigate.
Upon inspection, they discovered two tightly sealed packages taped to the cat. The bundles contained over 235 grams of marijuana, 68 grams of crack paste, and some rolling papers, according to Saysdotcom. The contraband was confiscated immediately, and the cat was handed over to Costa Rica’s National Animal Health Service for medical evaluation and care.
Viral Video Sparks Public Reaction
The Ministry of Justice and Peace posted a video of the incident on Facebook, which soon went viral. In the video, an official is seen gently pulling the cat down from a tree. He then reveals the drugs attached to the animal’s body. Using scissors, guards carefully remove the taped packages and place the feline on a table for a more detailed search.
WATCH THE VIRAL VIDEO:
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Social media users have since dubbed the cat “Narcomichi”, combining “narco” with michi, a popular Spanish slang term for cat. The peculiar case has sparked both concern and astonishment online.
Ongoing Investigation
Officials have launched a probe to determine who was behind this unconventional drug smuggling attempt. They are investigating how the cat ended up being used as a courier and who facilitated the delivery.
A Growing Trend in Costa Rican Prisons
This incident isn’t isolated. A report by the Costa Rica Star titled “Narco-Kittens: Pets in Costa Rican Prisons” claims that inmates regularly use animals, especially cats, to transport contraband. These pets often carry marijuana, cigarettes, cash, and even handwritten messages inside prison walls.
Moreover, drug trafficking has become a pressing issue in Costa Rica. According to The New York Times, over 21 tons of cocaine were seized in the country in 2023, raising concerns about the growing reach of organized crime in what is often seen as a tourist paradise.
