The JDF Coast Guard intercepted the vessel off the south coast early Wednesday morning.
Wild animals, including four monkeys, 12 parrots, and an ocelot cub were found aboard the vessel.
An ocelot, like the animal pictured, escaped into the wider Black River, St. Elizabeth area on Wednesday. The JDF is seeking the public's help to locate the cub.
A Jamaican and two Hondurans have been taken into custody after they were caught attempting to smuggle wild animals into the island.
The men were captured after the Jamaica Defence Force Coast Guard intercepted a vessel off the south coast early Wednesday morning.
Four monkeys, 12 parrots, an ocelot cub and a quantity of ganja were found aboard the vessel.
The JDF says during processing, the cub escaped into the wider Black River, St. Elizabeth area, and it is seeking the public's help to find the young animal.
Members of the security forces, officials from the National Environment and Planning Agency, and the Veterinary Services Department combed sections of Black River in search of the wildcat.
The army says the public should note that the cub resembles a kitten and may appear to be harmless. But despite its size and appearance, it is a wild animal and no attempt should be made to capture or tame it.
If it is seen, citizens are being urged to call JDF at 876-926-8121, NEPA at 876-754-7540 or 119.
The public is being reminded that accepting and keeping animals brought into Jamaica without the proper permits is illegal.
Investigation into the smuggling incident is ongoing. Officials of the Ministries of Health and Agriculture visited the scene Wednesday.
Ocelots are not known for being aggressive towards humans, but they may display aggressive behaviour when threatened or cornered. They are skilled predators and will defend themselves if they feel threatened or are protecting their territory.
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