Illegal Wildlife Trade Thriving in Cambodia Linked to Human Trafficking and Drug Smuggling
Summary
Investigations reveal a major illegal wildlife trade network in Cambodia linked to human trafficking and drug smuggling, controlled by gangs of Chinese origin targeting wealthy buyers, with wildlife products smuggled mainly to China.
Key Points
- Earth League International uncovered a vast illegal wildlife trade network in Cambodia linked to human trafficking, drug trafficking, and scams.
- Five gang leaders of Chinese origin control the wildlife trafficking network operating stores, restaurants, and factories in Cambodia.
- Wildlife products include tiger bones, rhino horns, pangolin scales, and tiger cubs, with a high demand from wealthy Chinese and Cambodian customers.
- The illegal trade is facilitated through corrupt officials and uses special economic zones and online platforms, with China as the primary destination for trafficked materials.
