Home / Crime and Justice / Vietnam Seizes Massive 1.2-Ton Ivory Haul From Africa
Vietnam Seizes Massive 1.2-Ton Ivory Haul From Africa
14 Aug
Summary
- Vietnam authorities discovered over 1,193 kg of elephant ivory.
- The illicit shipment also contained nearly 80 kg of big cat bones.
- The contraband arrived in three shipping containers from Congo.
Authorities in Vietnam have announced the seizure of a substantial amount of illegal ivory, weighing 1,193 kilograms and comprising 221 pieces. This significant haul was discovered hidden within sawn timber across three shipping containers that arrived at Quy Nhơn port on July 9. The shipment originated from the Republic of the Congo, according to provincial police.
In addition to the ivory, the illegal cargo contained 79.3 kilograms of bones identified as originating from big cats. These crushed bones are often used in traditional Chinese medicine. The discovery was made during customs clearance last week, prompting a criminal investigation into violations concerning protected animals.
Vietnam is recognized as a key transit point for the illegal wildlife trade, with contraband frequently destined for China, as well as for domestic and other Southeast Asian markets. While this seizure is the largest reported at Quy Nhơn, it is dwarfed by previous seizures exceeding seven tons in Danang and Haiphong.
