A month-long global crackdown on illegal wildlife trafficking has resulted in the seizure of nearly 30,000 live animals and the identification of 1,100 suspects, according to Interpol and the World Customs Organization (WCO).
The joint operation, known as Operation Thunder 2025, ran from 15 September to 15 October across 134 countries. Police, customs, border agents and wildlife authorities carried out 4,640 seizures, uncovering a record haul of protected animals, plants and illegally logged timber.
Authorities said the findings highlight a fast-growing criminal market stretching from Africa to Europe, Asia and the Americas.
One alarming trend was the rise in the bushmeat trade, with primate, giraffe, zebra and antelope meat seized in multiple countries. Officials reported a record 5.8 tonnes of bushmeat intercepted worldwide, much of it moving from African countries into Europe.
Marine trafficking also surged, with more than 245 tonnes of protected marine species—including thousands of shark fins—seized.
The operation uncovered a sharp increase in the smuggling of small exotic species, including nearly 10,500 butterflies, spiders and other arthropods, many protected under CITES. Interpol warned that removing such species threatens ecosystems and can introduce invasive pests or diseases.
Illegal plant trafficking also hit new highs, with over 10 tonnes seized, while illicit timber shipments exceeded 32,000 cubic metres.
Major cases reported globally included: South Africa seizing pangolins and 17,000 abalone; Indonesia confiscating over 10,000 birds and insects; Tanzania recovering more than 100 ivory pieces; Brazil dismantling a wildlife trafficking network; and North American authorities intercepting over 1,300 primate body parts shipped through the mail.
Interpol chief Valdecy Urquiza said the results show wildlife crime is now deeply intertwined with other illegal activities, “from drug trafficking to human exploitation.” The WCO added that customs agencies remain the “frontline defence” against the accelerating trade.
Data gathered during the operation will now be used to map global trafficking routes and identify key criminal networks, guiding future investigations as the illegal wildlife trade continues to grow despite international bans.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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