Masacru Bizoni Cluj: Fost Chestor de Poliție

A former high-ranking law enforcement official in Romania has ventured into an ambitious agricultural project: a bison farm. The general, an Academy of SRI graduate and former head of the BCCO Cluj, secured a 500-hectare concession in his hometown to launch the operation, initially starting with 300 bison with a long-term goal of reaching 2,000.

A Varied Menagerie

The farm wasn’t limited to bison. It also housed deer, roe deer, mouflon, fallow deer and wild boar. The initial investment of 2.5 million euros came, in part, from two foreign investors: German Johann Kilger and Dane Rudolf Kamer. However, over the past 12 years, the farm has reportedly deteriorated, along with the financial performance of the associated companies.

Concerns Over Animal Welfare

Recent reports from Libertatea and Cluj Manifest (video) indicate a troubling situation at the farm. Hundreds of animals are alleged to have died due to lack of food, and water. While the full extent of the situation across the hundreds of hectares is difficult to assess, remains of deceased animals have been observed, attracting scavenging birds. A potential sanitary risk to the local population is a concern, as it is currently unknown if the animals suffered from transmissible diseases.

Did You Know? The farm was initially populated with a diverse range of animals, including bison, deer, roe deer, mouflon, fallow deer, and wild boar.

Family Connections and Oversight

The situation is further complicated by familial ties. The mayor of the locality, Alexandru Rus, is the cousin of the general in reserve. When remains are visible near the perimeter, the local police alert the Environmental Guard, but that institution is subordinate to the local municipality. Attempts to contact Toma Rus for comment have been unsuccessful.

The mayor stated that his cousin has not been involved in the business for nine years. He also indicated that the farm once held a maximum of 400 bison and that, to his knowledge, they were adequately fed. He acknowledged the farm’s expansion into the neighboring commune of Panticeu.

A Complex Business Structure

According to Gazeta de Cluj, the core of the business consists of BT Bison Ranch SRL, BT Wild Ranch SRL, and R & K Hunting Services SRL, all directly involved in farm administration. Two additional entities, BT Farming & Agriculture SRL and BT Development Soporului SRL, operate in the real estate sector. All these companies are registered in Recea-Cristur.

The initial administration of the group of firms shifted from Toma Rus to Constantin “Titi” Jeican, the son of a founder of Banca Transilvania.

Expert Insight: The complex business structure, involving both agricultural and real estate entities, suggests a potentially multifaceted investment strategy that may extend beyond simply raising bison for meat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the initial investment in the bison farm?

The initial investment in the farm was 2.5 million euros.

Who were the original investors in the farm?

The original investors included a German, Johann Kilger, and a Dane, Rudolf Kamer.

What is the current status of the general’s involvement in the farm?

According to the mayor, the general has not been involved in the business for nine years.

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen what the future holds for this once-promising agricultural venture. Will the farm be able to overcome its current challenges, or will it succumb to financial difficulties and animal welfare concerns?