Spain's Civil Guard Returns Stolen Roosters in Soria

Guardia Civil returns stolen roosters to owners, igniting controversy

Is police efficiency equal for all citizens? The Guardia Civil recovered eight roosters stolen from a Valladolid family in Soria and returned them to their owners after the Seprona verified their legal origin. The case has sparked intense debate about police priorities and the treatment of a group allegedly involved in illegal cockfighting. While some celebrate the swift action, others denounce comparative grievances with unresolved car or home thefts.

Police efficiency under suspicion

The news, released by the Guardia Civil itself, details that Seprona specialists verified the birds' legal origin before returning them. The official message does not mention the animals' fate, but public debate assumes they are fighting roosters, an activity banned in Spain. The estimulante ilegal of return contrasts sharply with typical delays in other theft cases. "When your car, bike, or house is stolen, these 'knights' ignore you completely," summarizes one participant, reflecting widespread sentiment.

Seprona and the animal welfare paradox

Seprona, responsible for nature and animal protection, verified the birds' legal origin. For many, this constitutes preferential treatment toward an allegedly illegal activity. "Seprona supposedly protects animal welfare, yet apparently prioritizes certain 'animals'," another comment ironically notes. Critics argue the contradiction is clear: if the roosters are destined for fights, returning them ensures continued suffering.

Why return roosters if cockfighting is illegal?

Because the Guardia Civil acts on the theft, not subsequent activities. The roosters belong to their owners, and Seprona confirmed their legal provenance. Possessing roosters is not a crime, though using them for fights is. The return is based on restituting stolen property, without validating cockfighting. However, the rapid response contrasts with inaction in other cases, fueling perceptions of unfairness.

Comparative grievance: Car and home thefts

The most common complaint is unequal treatment. "Years ago, my bike was stolen in Barcelona; two months later, I received a parking fine because it was left on the sidewalk. The Urban Guard didn't even check the license plate," recounts one participant. Another claims three home burglaries while his family slept went unanswered. Many feel the Guardia Civil prioritizes high-profile cases or those with pressure from specific groups.

The shadow of cockfighting and black money

Though not mentioned in the news, debate assumes the roosters were for fighting. "They burn their combs so they don't bleed too much during fights," describes one message. This practice, banned in Spain, involves betting and illicit funds, according to participants. Some argue the return enables continued illegal activity. "If those at the top can order such things without challenge, it suggests lower ranks weren't appointed cleanly," reflects another.

Institutional response and Seprona's silence

The Guardia Civil has issued no further comments. Seprona, which verified the origin, has not addressed the animals' fate. Controversy remains open, with many demanding explanations for operational criteria. Meanwhile, the roosters are back in Valladolid, ready, some say, to continue their particular circus.

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The Guardia Civil's efficiency is undeniable when it chooses to be. It is a pity it only activates to return stolen roosters.