Empowering frontline officers to rescue animals from wildlife trafficking

We’re bringing live animals to the forefront of global anti-trafficking efforts

Problem

Live wild animals are being illegally captured, transported and sold at a shocking rate. Often, the animals targeted by illegal traffickers are threatened or protected species. Law enforcement agencies combatting this illegal trade are in urgent need of improved support to handle and care for seized live animals.  

Since current efforts to combat the illegal wildlife trade are largely focused on wildlife products, limited attention is provided to live animals rescued from trafficking. Live seizures and confiscations are an underrepresented part of combatting the illegal wildlife trade.  

Humane, safe handling and care of wildlife are critical to helping reduce health risks to both people and animals, and remedy negative impacts on biodiversity and animal welfare. 

Solution

Over the last two years, the project provided a global framework of resources for government agencies to handle and care for animals seized in trade, and empowered frontline officers in the Republic of Indonesia, the Republic of the Congo, and the Co‑operative Republic of Guyana. To accomplish the project goals, we partnered with Jakarta Animal Aid Network (JAAN), the Jane Goodall Institute (JGI), and Legal Atlas.  

Together, we implemented an innovative and holistic on-the-ground approach to combat illegal wildlife trafficking. The project provided capacity development on best practices in evidence management, animal handling, and biosafety, to 206 officers over 13 training events. In addition, front line officers were equipped with 162 confiscator kits in trafficking hotspots.  

We also developed the solutions needed to ensure that confiscated animals are treated humanely and safely and receive the best care while in custody. In this context, an innovative online learning program was established for law enforcement agencies to gain critical knowledge.

Furthermore, the project developed legal and technical resources which provide actionable and sustainable solutions to improve laws and regulations for the benefit of frontline officers and the animals they encounter.  

With additional support from INL, the project will sustain efforts in the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, the Republic of the Congo, and will expand to the Republic of Uganda and the Federative Republic of Brazil, as each of these countries is significantly impacted by the illegal wildlife trade and law enforcement officers frequently confiscate live animals.