The Pigeon Mafia: International criminal networks are stealing high-priced pigeons
CBS News • • world
Key Points:
- Elite racing pigeons, valued in the millions, have become targets of theft by organized groups dubbed the "pigeon mafia," particularly in Belgium, a global hub for pigeon racing.
- Tom Van Gaver, a renowned Belgian breeder, lost his prized pigeon, Finn, along with six others in a high-profile theft, highlighting a wave of over 35 similar robberies across multiple countries.
- The sport of pigeon racing has evolved with soaring prize money and international competitions, attracting wealthy buyers, especially from China and the Middle East, fueling a lucrative global market.
- Criminal networks are suspected of stealing top pigeons to breed and sell offspring on the black market, prompting increased security measures and the use of advanced genetic testing to identify stolen birds.
- A major police investigation led to arrests and the recovery of stolen pigeons through DNA analysis, though some prized birds, including Finn, remain missing, underscoring ongoing challenges in combating pigeon theft.
