The Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) says a tiger cub is on the loose in Black River, St. Elizabeth.

The animal was one of several seized when the Jamaica Defence Force interdicted a vessel off the south coast this morning.

The army says this was an attempt to smuggle contraband into the country.

The vessel was carrying four monkeys, twelve parrots, the tiger cub and a quantity of marijuana.

During processing at Black River, the tiger cub escaped containment and is now
believed to be at large in the wider Black River area.

The JDF is collaborating with the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA), the
Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), the Veterinary Services Department and other relevant State agencies to locate this tiger cub that was brought into the island illegally.

The cub resembles a kitten and may appear to be harmless.

However, the JDF is reminding citizens that despite its size and appearance, it is a wild animal and no attempt should be made to capture or tame it.

It can be identified by its reddish-orange coat with distinctive black stripes.

Civil/military co-operation and media affairs officer Captain Roxine Nickle is urging persons who see the tiger cub to contact the authorities.

If it is seen, citizens are being urged to call the JDF at (876) 926-8121, NEPA at (876) 754-7540 or the JCF (119).

The JDF is reminding the public that accepting and keeping animals brought into Jamaica without the proper permits is illegal.

In addition to the physical dangers posed by these animals, they may also carry diseases that pose a threat to humans and local animal life.

Investigation into the smuggling incident is ongoing, and the public will be updated when further details become available.