Two people are being investigated for suspected animal abuse after five dead horses were discovered at a rural property in Alora, Malaga province, where dozens of other animals were also found.
Guardia Civil officers from Seprona, the force’s environmental protection service, launched an investigation after receiving information about the horses. The discovery has raised serious concerns about the welfare of the surviving animals, including mares and foals, at the property.
Five dead horses found at Alora property
Officers found the five horse carcasses in different stages of decomposition, with areas of disturbed ground also identified at the finca. Those responsible for the property were reportedly unable to say exactly how many animals they had or explain what had caused the horses to die.
Investigators have not publicly established the cause of death, and the circumstances surrounding the discovery remain under investigation. The two people are being investigated on suspicion of an offence involving animal abuse. Being investigated does not mean they have been found guilty of a crime.
Dozens of horses still need care
At least 48 living horses, mares and foals were found at the property, according to reports about the Guardia Civil operation. Officers described the animals as behaving in a particularly feral manner, making them difficult to approach, handle and identify.
Urgent measures were taken to ensure the horses had access to food and water. Investigators also managed to move 38 animals into an enclosed area, allowing their condition to be assessed more closely. Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation and check that the required measures are being followed.
It has not yet been confirmed whether all the surviving horses will be removed from the property or where they might be taken if further protective measures are ordered.
Investigation referred to Malaga authorities
The case has been referred to the Environmental Prosecutor’s Office in Malaga (Fiscalia de Medio Ambiente), as investigators examine the suspected animal-welfare offence. More information about veterinary examinations, the cause of the five deaths and the long-term arrangements for the surviving horses has not yet been confirmed in the reports published so far.
The case highlights the challenges authorities face when large numbers of animals are found on rural properties without clear records of their numbers or individual identification. Anyone responsible for keeping horses must ensure their basic welfare needs are met, including access to appropriate food, water and care. For now, the investigation will need to establish what happened to the five horses and whether any offences were committed in relation to their deaths or the conditions in which the other animals were being kept.