Costa Rica police seize 5 capybaras, crack cocaine and marijuana from fleeing vehicle
Associated Press21 hrs
Costa Rica Police Seize Capybaras After Vehicle Chase
Above:Â Capybaras at Hefei Wild Animal Park on July 24, 2024 in Hefei, Anhui Province of China. Â Image copyright:Â Han Suyuan/Contributor/China News Service/VCG via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
The seizure of the capybaras by Costa Rican police demonstrates the importance of roadside checkpoints in preventing wildlife trafficking and tackling dangerous criminals. If not for routine stops, these animals would have been smuggled and put at risk in their captor's pursuit of profit. Now, the capybaras can transfer to a sanctuary, where they will live peacefully.
Narrative B
While the capybaras are certainly noteworthy, the story goes beyond the animals that have dominated news coverage. Equally important is that Torres and Navarrete were ruthless criminals caught smuggling drugs and weapons. These are illicit trades that inflict harm on communities. Unfortunately, the capybaras' social media appeal makes for better ratings, overshadowing the serious criminal elements of this case.