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Rabat – Yesterday, operations in Nador and Marrakech uncovered trafficking involving wild animals and reptiles, some of which pose risks to public safety.
Morocco’s security forces are intensifying efforts to combat wildlife crimes, targeting illegal animal sales in coordination with the National Agency for Water and Forests (ANEF).
In Nador, police arrested two suspects attempting to sell four ferrets. The individuals were caught in possession of the animals during a sting operation, exposing the persistence of illegal wildlife markets in urban areas.
Meanwhile, in Marrakech, authorities seized 61 snakes, including 13 cobras, 36 clover snakes, and various other reptiles, all kept in hazardous conditions that posed risks to public health and safety.
The confiscated animals were transferred to ANEF for care and rehabilitation, while authorities launched an investigation to dismantle potential networks behind these operations.
The suspects now face prosecution under laws protecting endangered species and regulating wildlife trade.
These actions are part of Morocco’s involvement in “Operation Thunder,” an international initiative led by Interpol to disrupt wildlife trafficking networks.
In 2023, the operation saw unprecedented global cooperation, with police, customs, border control, and environmental officials from 133 countries working together. This marked the highest participation rate since the campaign’s launch in 2017.
The operation resulted in over 2,100 seizures, including more than 300 kilograms of ivory, thousands of turtle eggs, 30 tons of plants, and body parts from big cats and rhinos, alongside primates, birds, and marine species.
By addressing such crimes, Morocco reinforces its role in preserving biodiversity and protecting endangered species from exploitation.
The crackdown reflects growing concerns about the illegal wildlife trade’s impact on ecosystems, human safety, and public health, signaling the need for stricter enforcement and public awareness campaigns.
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