nearly 20,000 live animals, all endangered or protected species, have been seized in a global operation against wildlife and forestry trafficking networks, jointly coordinated by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and INTERPOL. operation Thunder 2024 (11 November – 6 December) brought together Customs, Police, border control, forestry and other agencies from around the world to combat this illegal trade.
The operation resulted in the arrest of 365 suspects and the seizure of a meaningful number of wildlife and forestry products. the success of the operation highlights the growing threat of wildlife trafficking and the need for international cooperation to combat this crime.
The Operation Thunder series is backed by the CITES Secretariat and carried out under the partnership framework of the International Consortium on Combating Wildlife Crime (ICCWC).The 2024 edition was co-funded by the European Union, the UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, and other partners.INTERPOL wildlife forensic experts collected DNA samples from the seized animals to determine their origin and distribution, which will help investigate emerging trends and potential new trafficking routes. The seized animals were transferred to conservation centers for their care and rehabilitation.
Operation Thunder 2024: A Global Victory Against Wildlife Trafficking
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In a groundbreaking global effort, Operation Thunder 2024 saw the coordinated action of international agencies to thwart wildlife trafficking.The joint operation by the World Customs Association and INTERPOL resulted in the seizure of nearly 20,000 live animals, all of which were endangered or protected species. The operation highlighted the urgent need for international collaboration to combat the escalating threat of wildlife crime.
Expert Interview on Operation Thunder 2024
Senior Editor, Emily thompson, interviews renowned wildlife conservation specialist, Dr. Raul Hernandez, on the implications and meaning of Operation Thunder 2024 and global efforts to combat wildlife trafficking.
ämpThe Scale and impact of Operation Thunder 2024
Emily Thompson: Dr. Hernandez, could you provide some context on the scale and impact of operation Thunder 2024?
Dr. Raul Hernandez: Emily, Operation Thunder 2024 was a important milestone in the global war against wildlife and forestry trafficking. Over 365 suspects were arrested, and nearly 20,000 live endangered or protected species were seized. This operation underscores the significant threat posed by wildlife trafficking to global biodiversity and the crucial role of international cooperation in mitigating it.
The Role of International Cooperation
Emily Thompson: How crucial is international cooperation in preventing wildlife trafficking?
dr. Raul Hernandez: International cooperation is absolutely vital. Wildlife trafficking is a transnational crime that requires concerted efforts across borders. The partnership framework of the International consortium on Combating wildlife Crime (ICCWC) and support from entities like the CITES secretariat are crucial. This collaboration ensures that we can share intelligence, resources, and best practices to effectively combat the notorious trafficking networks.
DNA Forensics and Investigative Tools
Emily Thompson: Can you explain the role of DNA forensics in these operations?
Dr. raul Hernandez: DNA forensics play a pivotal role in wildlife trafficking investigations. INTERPOL’s wildlife forensic experts collected DNA samples from these seized animals to determine their origin and distribution. this helps investigators trace back the trafficking routes and uncover emerging trends, aiding in the dismantling of trafficking networks.
The destination of Seized Animals
Emily Thompson: What happens to the seized animals after they are confiscated?
Dr. Raul Hernandez: The seized animals are transferred to conservation centers where they receive the necessary care and rehabilitation. It’s critical that these animals get the appropriate attention to ensure their survival and eventually integrate them back into the wild if possible.
Future Direction and Efforts
Emily Thompson: What are the forthcoming challenges and efforts in this fight against wildlife trafficking?
Dr. Raul Hernandez: The fight against wildlife trafficking is ongoing. future challenges include strengthening legal frameworks,enhancing technological tools,and maintaining international cooperation. Initiatives such as Operation Thunder will continue to be essential, backed by robust funding from international bodies and governments dedicated to preserving our planet’s wildlife patrimony.
