Hípica Como Tú, in Navalcarnero, has taken in dozens of animals affected by the fires. However, they warn that fake account numbers for donations are circulating that will not reach the centre.
A solidarity initiative in Navalcarnero to rescue animals from the fires ravaging the central peninsula has fallen victim to a scam. Hípica Como Tú, which has set up spaces to accommodate evacuated horses, ponies, and other animals, reports that unknown individuals are spreading fake account numbers for donors to send money that will never reach the centre.
Carol, one of the managers of the equestrian centre, recounts that they had to chase their mare for 800 kilometres due to roadblocks by the Civil Guard. Eventually, she managed to rescue the animal and bring it to the facilities in Navalcarnero, where dozens of equines are already being housed.
The owner of the equestrian centre, Cipri, explains that they have had to clear out junk and adapt spaces under construction to house the animals. “It’s under construction. They are given water four or five times a day,” he says.
However, scammers have taken advantage of the solidarity. “There are groups passing around numbers for Bizum transfers that will not reach us,” Carol warns. Therefore, she asks that any financial help be channelled exclusively through the official accounts of Transportes Briz and Hípica Como Tú.
The affected party insists that “we are doing this out of solidarity, we haven’t asked for a euro,” but admits that donations would be a great help to buy feed, straw, and other necessities for the animals.
From the equestrian centre, they remind those interested in helping to always verify account numbers through the official channels of the centre and not to trust WhatsApp messages or social media asking for transfers.
The Civil Guard has been informed of the impersonation, although there are currently no arrests. Meanwhile, Hípica Como Tú continues its rescue and shelter work while the fires remain active in several areas of the Community of Madrid.
Residents of Navalcarnero and nearby towns can continue to contribute with food, straw, or financial donations through official channels. The equestrian centre has set up a collection point at its facilities.
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