Investigation at the Łączna Zoo. Buried animal bones uncovered

The District Court in Wałbrzych has rejected the prosecutor's request for the temporary arrest of the owner of the private Łączna Zoo in Mieroszów. Instead of detention, police supervision and bail were imposed on him. Four other individuals were charged, but were not remanded in custody—non-custodial preventive measures were applied to them.

The investigation concerns suspicions of animal abuse. According to the prosecution, as many as 561 animals were neglected at the zoo. The suspects allegedly knowingly allowed pain and suffering to be inflicted on them by failing to provide appropriate living conditions, proper nutrition, and adequate veterinary care.

Buried Bones and Poor Conditions

During an inspection of the zoo's premises, several dozen buried animal bones (mainly from ungulates) were found, with the causes of death unexplained. It was also determined that the animals were kept in excessively low temperatures, and there was a shortage of appropriate food supplies on-site. The local government is assisting in securing the animals, including through the setup and heating of tents.

Animal Relocation and Challenges with Assistance

The prosecution had prepared a plan to relocate the animals; however, some foundations are withdrawing their previously pledged support due to fears of online hate and aggression. Investigators are appealing to animal welfare organizations for assistance, emphasizing that without their help, a swift relocation may be impossible.

Concurrently, the General Director for Environmental Protection is conducting administrative proceedings regarding the revocation of the permit to operate the zoo. The proceedings stem from inspections conducted by the Regional Directorate for Environmental Protection (RDOŚ) in Wrocław, which revealed a number of irregularities (including inadequate conditions for some species, as well as deficiencies in breeding documentation and animal origin records).

Residents' Reaction and the Zoo's Defense

The decision to seize the animals sparked opposition from some residents, who attempted to block the transport—leading to police intervention. One person was fined, and four were detained for assaulting police officers. The owners of the zoo maintain that the facility has operated legally since 2012 (with official zoological garden status), is subject to regular inspections, and possesses veterinary documentation. They highlight the risks associated with moving wild and exotic animals and are calling for the presence of an impartial observer.

Expert Opinion

Ewa Zgrabczyńska, the former director of the Poznań Zoo, is appealing for immediate help: providing the animals with thermal comfort, food, and veterinary supervision by zoo specialists. In her view, the animals have become hostages to procedures and misinformation, and caring for such a large number of diverse species requires both experience and specialized feed.

The situation is ongoing. The fate of the animals depends on decisions made by the authorities and the prosecution, as well as the involvement of animal welfare organizations.