Authorities are investigating the illegal keeping of dangerous animals in Naxxar. The Veterinary Regulation Directorate (VRD) said that the animals identified on the farm include four lions and one leopard, all classified as dangerous animals under Schedule B of SL 439.19.

The VRD, which falls within the Ministry for Agriculture, Fisheries, and Animal Rights, in collaboration with the Police, said that it is actively investigating a case involving the housing of dangerous animals on a farm located within the limits of Naxxar.

The investigation follows a report made by a concerned member of the public. Several individuals, including the farm’s owners, have been interrogated regarding the case, the VRD said.

The Directorate stated that the initial findings indicate that the enclosure housing the animals is not registered in compliance with Subsidiary Legislation 439.19, the Owning and Keeping of Dangerous Animals Regulations. These regulations outline the procedures for registering dangerous animals, transferring ownership, and ensuring their proper care.

Under the legislation, a dangerous animal must be kept in an adequate and safe enclosure that meets its specific health, cleanliness, and microclimatic needs. Written approval from the Director is required before such animals can be brought onto any site.

Veterinary professionals from the VRD inspected the premises and conducted assessments of the animals’ health and living conditions.

The VRD said that these “veterinary evaluations indicated that the animals are generally in good physical condition, although one lion is exhibiting signs of an orthopaedic condition that requires further attention. Contrary to media reports, no evidence of dead lions was found at the site.”

The Directorate went on to explain that the site is currently being monitored to ensure the animals remain secure and do not pose a threat to public safety. “Steps have been taken to ensure the animals are being fed and kept in a clean environment to meet their basic welfare needs.”

Additionally, the VRD said it is “exploring various options, including the relocation of the animals to suitable facilities that meet all welfare and safety standards.”

Legal action will be pursued against the alleged offenders in accordance with the Veterinary Services Act and the Animal Welfare Act.

The authorities reaffirmed their “commitment to safeguarding the welfare of the animals and ensuring public safety during this ongoing investigation. Measures are being taken to address the immediate needs of the animals while working towards a long-term solution that upholds the standards outlined in the regulations.”

Last week, twenty-three animal organisations and individuals in Malta and Gozo sent an open letter to Agriculture and Animal Rights Minister Anton Refalo calling for a round-table conference regarding the ownership and housing of exotic animals in Malta, following this discovery of the big cats in Naxxar.

Photo: Screenshot Vuci ghall-Annimali video of one of the lions at a premises in Naxxar

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