Wildlife Gets a Big Boost in Protection Here

Peru has officially recognized wildlife trafficking as part of a law against organized crime.

“[This] is an important step in tackling the growing illegal trafficking of terrestrial and aquatic wildlife in the country,” says director of Public Policy at Oceana Peru, Carmen Heck. “We are talking about a large-scale crime that is carried out through criminal networks with international reach. Peru now has more efficient legal tools to investigate, prosecute, and punish this highly complex illegal activity.”

More effective strategies are expected to come into place in Peru such as undercover operation teams and the ability of judges and police to hand out greater penalties for those who continue to engage in this illegal activity. Peru is among the top ten most biodiverse countries in the world and has become the first country in South America to recognize wildlife trafficking as a crime. “Peru is taking a leading step in the region,” Heck concludes.