In a historic operation, nearly 1,000 trafficked animals, including critically endangered lemurs and tortoises, have been repatriated to Madagascar from Thailand. This follows a May raid in Thailand, where authorities intercepted one of the country’s largest wildlife trafficking hauls, uncovering 1,109 animals destined for the illegal exotic pet trade. Following months of careful planning, the animals were repatriated to Madagascar in three flights sponsored by South Africa-based Airlink and Qatar Airways. In the intervening months, 149 of the trafficked animals perished due to poor health. Back in Madagascar, the survivors will undergo quarantine before being released into specialized nature reserves. The operation highlights Madagascar’s biodiversity crisis, with habitat loss and trafficking posing significant threats. Meanwhile, experts stress the importance of international collaboration to combat wildlife crime, emphasizing that this milestone is just one step in the fight to protect endangered species.
SOURCE: AL JAZEERA