Praveen Sood, Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), inaugurated a two-day Regional Investigative and Analytical Case Meeting (RIACM) on Exotic Species Trafficking in New Delhi. The collaborative effort between INTERPOL and CBI aims to address the escalating threat posed by transnational wildlife trafficking.
A Grave Threat to Biodiversity
Director Sood emphasized the severity of the situation, stating that the trafficking of exotic wild species poses a grave threat that necessitates enhanced international cooperation and information sharing among law enforcement agencies. The participating countries, each home to rich biodiversity, face the constant menace of transnational poaching and smuggling networks targeting rare and endangered species.
India’s Commitment to Conservation
Highlighting India’s commitment to conservation, Sood outlined the multifaceted approach undertaken by the country, including legal frameworks, enforcement mechanisms, international cooperation, and community involvement. The collaborative effort with INTERPOL signifies India’s dedication to protecting exotic species from the clutches of illegal trade.
Understanding Trafficking Routes and Modus Operandi
Hyuk Lee, Criminal Intelligence Officer from INTERPOL’s Environmental Security Unit, stressed the need to better understand trafficking routes and modus operandi to effectively combat wildlife crimes. He expressed hope that the meeting would contribute to disrupting and dismantling the illicit supply chains that sustain this illegal trade.
RIACM Event Details
Co-hosted by INTERPOL and CBI, the RIACM on Exotic Species Trafficking is taking place at the CBI Headquarters in New Delhi on February 22nd and 23rd, 2024. Delegations from India, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand, comprising law enforcement professionals and domain experts, are participating in the event. The Indian delegation includes officers from CBI, Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), and Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI).
The meeting’s agenda includes:
- Understanding Modus Operandi: Analyzing the tactics and strategies employed in trafficking live exotic animals and birds in the region.
- Identifying Information Gaps: Addressing gaps in information that hinder effective law enforcement against wildlife crimes.
- Criminal Information Sharing: Facilitating the sharing of critical information to combat wildlife trafficking.
- Network Identification: Identifying transnational networks involved in illegal trafficking activities.
- Deliberation on Priority Targets: Discussing and prioritizing targets involved in trafficking transactions.
The meeting also involves the exchange of updates on transnational criminal networks and related INTERPOL notices. Efforts will be made to enhance the utilization of INTERPOL channels to combat wildlife crimes more effectively.
CBI’s Role as INTERPOL’s National Central Bureau
The CBI, as the National Central Bureau for INTERPOL in India, plays a crucial role in coordinating with all law enforcement agencies in the country for cooperation over INTERPOL channels. This collaborative effort reflects a shared commitment to protecting biodiversity and combating wildlife crimes on an international scale.
