Global Wildlife Trafficking Operation Yields Massive Seizures of Animals and Ivory

In a joint operation called "Operation Thunder," Interpol and the World Customs Organization seized over 2,000 protected animals and plants, including 53 primates, 660 pounds of ivory, and hundreds of turtle eggs. More than 500 arrests were made in 133 countries, making it the largest effort since the operation began in 2017. Preliminary information shows that 60% of the cases were linked to international organized crime groups, with high levels of document fraud used for transportation. The operation also revealed the exploitation of reptiles and marine life for luxury fashion and the use of online platforms for illegal sales.