Cat found smuggling drugs into prison

Authorities in Costa Rica recently intercepted an unusual drug smuggler: a black-and-white cat with narcotics taped to its body.

The feline was captured on May 6 near the barbed wire fence of the Pococí Penitentiary after guards noticed suspicious gray patches on its fur.

Upon closer inspection, they found around 236 grams of marijuana, nearly 68 grams of heroin, and rolling papers strapped to the cat's back.

The Ministry of Justice and Peace released a video of the incident on Facebook, stating that prison police officers managed to intercept the cat after a watchtower guard spotted it in a grassy area and raised the alarm. Officers quickly apprehended the animal and removed the drug packages before they could enter the prison.

Further examination revealed one package contained 235.65 grams of suspected marijuana, while the other held 67.76 grams of suspected crack paste, along with two sheets of rolling paper.

The cat was handed over to the National Animal Health Service for a medical checkup. Authorities are now investigating who was behind the smuggling attempt, and whether inmates may have coordinated the act with external accomplices. Surveillance footage is being reviewed to trace the cat's movements and identify any suspects.

Officials noted that this case reflects a broader trend in which criminals use animals—particularly cats—for smuggling drugs into prisons. Their stealth and agility make them effective couriers for small quantities of contraband, often trained or lured inside prison grounds with food.

Costa Rica has faced rising drug trafficking in recent years, with authorities seizing 21.3 tons of cocaine in 2023 alone.