Aviation’s role in combating the illegal wildlife trade has once again come to the forefront with the recent arrest of a 43-year-old man at OR Tambo International Airport. The suspect was apprehended on 23 June while attempting to board a flight to Vietnam via Qatar, carrying a suitcase filled with lion bones.
The arrest at OR Tambo International Airport was made possible due to the vigilance of Bidvest security guards who conducted a thorough search of the suspect’s luggage. Discovered inside his hand luggage were animal bones wrapped in yellow cellophane, later identified as the remains of at least five lions. The coordinated efforts of the Hawks, Bidvest Security, Crime Intelligence, and officials from the Department of Environmental Affairs played a vital role in identifying the contraband. Additionally, foreign currency, a cellphone, and two passports were seized by the authorities.
OR Tambo International Airport authorities have arrested a man (43) for being in possession of lion bones on 23 June.
The suspect was about to board a flight to Vietnam via Qatar. The authorities further seized foreign currency, a cellphone, and two passports.#airport pic.twitter.com/tWbIVGWLHK
— FL360aero (@fl360aero) June 24, 2023
Aviation Industry’s Commitment to Protecting Endangered Species
This incident serves as a reminder of the severity of the illegal wildlife trade, which stands as the fourth-largest global criminal activity. The impact of this trade extends beyond the harm caused to individual animals and endangered species. It also poses a significant threat to ecological systems and global health. The aviation industry recognizes these risks and has taken proactive measures to combat the illegal wildlife trade.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has played a pivotal role in spearheading the industry’s fight against wildlife trafficking. In 2016, IATA’s annual general meeting unanimously passed a resolution condemning the illegal trade in wildlife and wildlife products. This resolution not only expressed the industry’s disapproval but also committed airlines to collaborate with government authorities and conservation organizations in the battle against the trafficking of rare species.
To further demonstrate their dedication, sixty-one airlines have directly joined the United for Wildlife Transport Taskforce, which operates under the patronage of Buckingham Palace. Among these airlines, Emirates stands out for its active participation. The airline painted two of its Airbus A380s with special “United for Wildlife” decals, effectively raising awareness among passengers and the wider public. Furthermore, In 2015, Emirates also became a part of the USAID partnership ROUTES – Reducing Opportunities for Unlawful Transport of Endangered Species. In Africa, Kenya Airways is a signatory of this agency that brings together transport and logistics companies, government agencies, development groups, law enforcement, conservation organizations, academia and donors in an attempt to disrupt wildlife trafficking.
Aviation’s involvement in combating the illegal wildlife trade extends beyond awareness campaigns. Airports and airlines have implemented stringent security measures to detect and prevent the transportation of illegal wildlife. The fight against the illegal wildlife trade is an ongoing battle that demands the commitment and collaboration of various stakeholders.
