The Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) teamed up with the Malaysian Armed Forces recently and managed to take down one of the country’s most wanted elephant-hunting syndicates. Huzzah!
Seven poachers — all of whom were said to be “highly wanted” — were nabbed as they emerged from the jungle in Kelantan, reports The Star. Authorities also seized equipment that included several elephant guns, machetes, plastic explosives (!?) and nine chainsaws which were presumably used to saw off elephant tusks. Tiger teeth and dried elephant meat were also found.
So far the group has been responsible for at least 15 dead elephants poached for their ivory between 2013 and 2016. Other than poaching elephants, the group is also known for targeting other wildlife native to Malaysia such as serows, gaurs and sambars across Kelantan, Terengganu and Perak.
With the arrest, the men face multiple charges under the Wildlife Conservation Act, as well as charges for illegal possession of firearms and explosives.
“This case tells us that poachers have access to serious firepower,” stated Dr. Chris R. Shepherd, Regional Director of wildlife trade monitoring network TRAFFIC in Southeast Asia.
“They are becoming increasingly well organised. We hope the Royal Malaysian Police will assist Perhilitan in bringing these criminals to justice.”
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