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Join on Telegram Morocco’s National Agency for Water and Forests (ANEF) announced on Wednesday the dismantling of a major network involved in the trafficking of protected species during a joint operation carried out Sunday in Sidi Bouknadel, in the Sale prefecture.
According to an ANEF statement, the operation, conducted in coordination with the Royal Gendarmerie and local authorities, led to the seizure of a large number of protected animals, including African grey parrots, lorises, caiques, a python, a scorpion, and a tarantula.
These animals, originating from abroad, are listed under the annexes of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which regulates trade in threatened species.
The operation uncovered a concealed facility arranged to resemble a natural habitat, containing two large aviaries housing 201 birds held illegally.
The seized animals were immediately placed under the care of a specialized team commissioned by ANEF and transferred to a wildlife rehabilitation center to ensure their safety and proper medical monitoring, the agency added.
A judicial investigation has been opened to identify those involved and dismantle any related networks, in accordance with Law No. 29-05 on the protection of wild fauna and flora species and the regulation of their trade.
Morocco, a signatory to the CITES convention since 1975, continues to uphold its international commitments through the enforcement of Law 29-05 and its implementing decree.
This latest operation, ANEF said, reaffirms Morocco’s determination to combat wildlife trafficking and protect both national and global biodiversity.
The agency also urged the public to remain vigilant and act responsibly, reminding that any purchase of an exotic animal must be accompanied by official CITES documents proving its legal origin.
MWN with MAP
