Prosecution of Wildlife Smuggling

The illegal trade and transportation of wildlife has become a significant problem in many countries, including Vietnam. Not only does this threaten the existence of endangered species, but it also has a severe impact on ecosystems and national security.

On July 20, 2024, in Trinh Trung Tay hamlet, An Ninh commune, Tien Hai district, Thai Binh province, local police discovered and apprehended Duong Minh Doan (born in 1990, residing in Long Bien, Hanoi) for illegally transporting two dead tiger cubs and one dead bear cub, which were being kept cold in a styrofoam box.

[Image: Ranthamborenationalpark]

Immediately afterward, law enforcement agencies arrested the related individuals and seized all evidence. The two tiger cubs were scientifically classified as Panthera tigris, and the bear cub belonged to the Asiatic black bear species. Both species are listed in the IUCN Red List.

Based on the collected evidence, the Tien Hai District Police Investigation Agency has initiated criminal proceedings, prosecuted Duong Minh Doan as a suspect, and detained him for violating regulations on the protection of endangered and precious wildlife, as stipulated in Clause c, Paragraph 2, Article 244 of the Penal Code.

This is considered a success in the effort to protect wildlife and prevent illegal wildlife trade activities in Vietnam. To achieve greater effectiveness in this work, it is necessary to continue strengthening international cooperation, raising public awareness, and implementing strong deterrents against illegal wildlife trade and transportation. Only then can we protect endangered species and maintain the balance of the natural ecosystem.

Source: Bao ve Phap luat Newspaper