UK Border Force Seizes Over 250 Endangered Species in Major Bust

In a major operation, UK Border Force has seized over 250 endangered species, including rare birds, reptiles, and amphibians. The seizure is one of the largest of its kind and highlights the ongoing battle against wildlife trafficking.

Wildlife smuggling is a growing crime

Wildlife smuggling is a serious organized crime that fuels corruption, drives species to extinction, and undermines our border security. In response to the growing threat, Border Force has been leading an annual international operation to combat illegal wildlife smuggling. This year's operation resulted in a staggering 73% increase in seizures compared to 2023, with over 250 endangered species and illegal wildlife products intercepted at airports, ports, and mail depots across the country.

Endangered Species Seizures

The operation yielded several significant seizures, including:

1. Rainbow Boa Constrictors - Border Force officers found 10 rainbow boa constrictors hidden under blankets in a car at Dover. The driver had bought them at a German reptile show without a license.
2. Endangered Birds - Over 100 endangered birds were discovered crammed into a car, including scarlet ibis, green-cheeked conures, and lovebirds. Some had died, and the rest were kept in filthy conditions, risking the spread of disease.
3. Tarantulas - Border Force intercepted over 2,000 live tarantulas from Europe, worth an estimated £70,000. The consignment included more than 300 protected species without the appropriate licenses.
4. Other Items - Other items prevented from reaching the black market included an elephant hair ring from the United States, king cobra balm from Thailand, and a blacktip shark jaw from Australia.

Impacts

Wildlife crime is a lucrative business worth up to £17 billion globally each year, making it the fourth largest international crime after firearms, drugs, and human trafficking. The intercepted items are protected by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), which is marking its 50th year.

Migration and Citizenship Minister Mike Tapp said:

Wildlife smuggling is serious organized crime. It fuels corruption, drives species to extinction, and undermines our border security. We congratulate Border Force on this year’s hugely successful operation, which has cut off a major source of funding for dangerous gangs.

DEFRA Minister Mary Creagh added:

The illegal wildlife trade is vile and destroys the natural world. By tackling wildlife crime, we’re sending a clear message to the criminal gangs that this government will strain every sinew to bring those involved to justice.

The seizures demonstrate Border Force's specialist CITES team at Heathrow, which is recognized as world leaders in detecting and seizing illegal wildlife products. The operation highlights the importance of international cooperation in combating wildlife trafficking.

In conclusion, the recent seizure by UK Border Force serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against wildlife trafficking. With a 73% increase in seizures compared to 2023, it is clear that the fight against illegal wildlife smuggling continues to gain momentum. The operation demonstrates the determination of Border Force to dismantle criminal smuggling networks and protect endangered species.