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 and INTERPOL.
Operation Thunder 2024 (11 November – 6 December) brought together Customs, Police, border control, forestry and wildlife officials from 138 countries and regions, marking the widest participation since the first edition in 2017.
Authorities arrested 365 suspects and identified six transnational criminal networks suspected of trafficking animals and plants protected by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. Such species are illegally trafficked to meet specific market demands, whether for food, perceived medicinal benefits, “luxury”, and collector items or as pets and competition animals.
The live animals, which included big cats, birds, pangolins, primates and reptiles, were rescued in connection with 2,213 seizures made worldwide.
Where possible, wildlife forensic experts collected DNA samples before transferring the animals to conservation centres, where their health was assessed while awaiting repatriation or rehabilitation, in line with national frameworks and relevant protocols.
The collection of DNA is a crucial part of supporting prosecutions, as it helps confirm the type of species and its origin or distribution, shedding light on new trafficking routes and emerging trends.
In addition to the live animals, participating countries seized hundreds of thousands of protected animal parts and derivatives, trees, plants, marine life and arthropods.
Timber cases represent the most significant seizures, primarily occurring in sea cargo container shipments, while most seizures involving the other categories of goods took place at airports and mail-processing hubs.
Some authorities also investigated online trade and found suspects using multiple profiles and linked accounts across social media platforms and marketplaces to expand their reach.
Authorities also identified more than 100 companies involved in the trafficking of protected species.
Ian Saunders, WCO Secretary General, stated, “Operation Thunder continues to shed light on a crime that is often not a priority for enforcement actors. Through our joint efforts we have established cooperation mechanisms that facilitate the exchange of information and intelligence, and we have refined our enforcement strategies.
“Illegal wildlife trade is still rapidly growing, highly lucrative and has devastating effects. The WCO remains committed to support its Members and partners to effectively combat this serious crime.”
Valdecy Urquiza, INTERPOL Secretary General, said, “Organized crime networks are profiting from the demand for rare plants and animals, exploiting nature to fuel human greed. This has far-reaching consequences: it drives biodiversity loss, destroys communities, contributes to climate change and even fuels conflict and instability.
“Environmental crimes are uniquely destructive, and INTERPOL, working closely with its partners, is committed to protecting our planet for future generations.”
