Botunets Standoff: Circus Performer Refuses to Hand Over Pet Crocodile to Authorities

Botunets, Bulgaria — A dramatic standoff unfolded in Botunets when representatives from Sofia’s Zoo and the Regional Inspectorate for Environment and Water (RIEW) attempted to retrieve a crocodile discovered in the area.

The alleged owner of the reptile, a circus performer named Victor, refused to hand over the animal, leading to a tense situation involving increased police presence and curious onlookers.

The incident began when employees of the “Kremikovtsi” regional administration found the Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) and alerted the regional mayor, Lilia Donkova.

Following the report, RIEW-Sofia and the Bulgarian Food Safety Agency were called in to assess the situation. Representatives from Sofia Zoo also arrived to assist with the potential relocation of the crocodile.

Victor, who identified himself as the crocodile’s owner, asserted that he had legally purchased the animal, which he named Crocky. He claimed that Crocky was tame, did not bite, and was being kept in adequate conditions.

As a circus performer, Victor stated that he had the necessary documentation for the crocodile, which RIEW-Sofia confirmed. The reptile is registered and legally permitted to be kept in Bulgaria.

However, during an on-site inspection, RIEW-Sofia found the conditions for the crocodile to be inadequate. They noted that the small reservoir and lack of proper thermoregulation provisions posed a risk to the animal’s well-being.

Despite Victor’s assurances, RIEW-Sofia insisted that the crocodile needed to be relocated to Sofia Zoo, where it could receive appropriate veterinary care and be housed in conditions suitable for its species.

The situation escalated as Victor demanded a detailed report and justification for the confiscation of his reptile.

The authorities and environmental inspectors engaged in a heated argument with Victor, while the presence of the police and gathered citizens added to the tension. As the day progressed, it became clear that an immediate resolution would not be possible.

By 21:30, the authorities decided to postpone the relocation to avoid further chaos. It was agreed that the crocodile would remain in Botunets overnight, with a follow-up inspection planned to verify its chip and documentation. The reptile was to be kept in a safer location in Botunets until the inspectors could return the next day.

The incident drew significant attention from local residents and the media, highlighting the challenges faced by authorities in dealing with exotic animals kept in non-professional environments. The relocation of the crocodile remains a priority for RIEW-Sofia, who are determined to ensure the animal’s safety and well-being.

As the situation develops, authorities are preparing to address any legal and logistical challenges that may arise. The outcome of the follow-up inspection will determine the next steps in resolving this unusual and contentious issue.