Global crackdown seizes 30,000 animals, identifies 1,100 suspects in wildlife trafficking sweep
A coordinated global effort against illegal wildlife trafficking has led to the seizure of nearly 30,000 live animals and the identification of more than 1,100 suspects, according to Interpol and the World Customs Organization (WCO).
The month-long operation, dubbed Operation Thunder 2025, ran from September 15 to October 15 across 134 countries.
Police, customs officers, border agents, and wildlife authorities carried out 4,640 seizures, uncovering large quantities of protected animals, plants, and illegally logged timber.
Officials highlighted the operation as evidence of a rapidly growing international criminal market, spanning Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
Of particular concern was the surge in bushmeat trafficking, with primate, giraffe, zebra, and antelope meat seized in multiple countries.
Globally, authorities intercepted a record 5.8 tonnes of bushmeat, much of it originating from African nations en route to Europe.
Marine species were also heavily targeted, with more than 245 tonnes of protected sea life including thousands of shark fins confiscated.
Small exotic species, such as butterflies, spiders, and other arthropods, were seized in record numbers, nearly 10,500 in total, many listed under CITES protections.
Authorities warned that removing these species threatens ecosystems and may introduce invasive pests or diseases.
Illegal plant trafficking reached new highs, exceeding 10 tonnes, while illicit timber shipments surpassed 32,000 cubic metres.
Notable cases reported during the crackdown included: South Africa: Pangolins and 17,000 abalone seized.
Indonesia: Confiscation of over 10,000 birds and insects.
Tanzania: Recovery of more than 100 ivory items.
Brazil: Dismantling of a wildlife trafficking network.
North America: Interception of over 1,300 primate body parts shipped via mail.
Interpol Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza emphasised that wildlife crime is increasingly linked to other forms of criminality, including drug trafficking and human exploitation. WCO officials stressed that customs agencies remain the frontline defense against the illegal trade.
Data collected during the operation will be used to map trafficking routes and pinpoint criminal networks, guiding future enforcement efforts to combat the growing global wildlife crime problem.
