On ivory, follow the trafficking networks and not the headlines (commentary)
In early March 2026, acting on intelligence shared by my organization, the Environmental Investigation Agency UK, Zambian authorities seized a consignment of more than 500 kg (over 1,100 pounds) of ivory and arrested a suspect with long-standing links to regional ivory trafficking operations. One of the suspects involved in the case was convicted in 2019 […]
In early March 2026, Zambian authorities seized over 500 kg of ivory and arrested a suspect with ties to regional ivory trafficking. One of the suspects was previously convicted for possession of over 200 kg of ivory in 2019, but was released and continued trading ivory. The article highlights Zambia's exploitation by criminal networks, particularly Congolese groups, who operate across Zambia and the wider region, sourcing wildlife products including ivory, rhino horn, pangolin scales, and big cats.
These networks exploit weak enforcement, corrupt officials, and marginalized communities to facilitate their trade, moving products along complex transnational routes towards Asia, with Vietnam often serving as a key transit hub. The recent seizure in Zambia, along with two others in Tanzania and Botswana, brings the total global ivory seizures since 2023 to approximately 29 tons.
Written by urgent.news from Mongabay's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
