Interpol seizes 30,000 live animals in global wildlife crime crackdown

Wildlife Trafficking Crackdown: Operation Thunder 2025

Operation Thunder 2025, a global initiative led by Interpol and the World Customs Organization, was conducted from Fri, Sep 15, 2023, to Sun, Oct 15, 2023. The operation spanned 134 countries and resulted in significant seizures and arrests related to illegal wildlife trafficking.

30,000 live animals were seized. 1,100 suspects were identified. 4,640 seizures were made, uncovering illegal wildlife and timber.

The operation highlighted a concerning increase in the bushmeat trade , with seizures of primate, giraffe, zebra, and antelope meat amounting to 5.8 tonnes . Marine trafficking also increased, with more than 245 tonnes of protected species, including shark fins, intercepted.

Additionally, there was a rise in the smuggling of small exotic species , such as 10,500 butterflies, spiders, and other arthropods . The illegal trade of plants reached new levels, with over 10 tonnes seized, and illicit timber shipments exceeded 32,000 cubic metres .

South Africa: Seizure of pangolins and 17,000 abalone. Indonesia: Confiscation of over 10,000 birds and insects. Tanzania: Recovery of more than 100 ivory pieces. Brazil: Dismantling of a wildlife trafficking network. North America: Interception of over 1,300 primate body parts.

Interpol chief Valdecy Urquiza emphasized the connection between wildlife crime and other illegal activities, such as drug trafficking and human exploitation. The World Customs Organization identified customs agencies as critical in combatting this trade. Data from the operation will be used to map trafficking routes and target criminal networks, shaping future investigations amidst growing illegal wildlife trade challenges.

Based on reporting by Africanews.