LYON, France - On 24th May, the global fight against wildlife crime took a step forward with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between INTERPOL and the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW).
The agreement between the two organizations establishes a formal framework for cooperation, in particular on combating crimes related to the illegal killing and trafficking of elephants, rhinoceroses and tigers through regional and global operations.
“This agreement with IFAW will provide further momentum to efforts worldwide in identifying and dismantling the criminal organizations engaged in wildlife trafficking,” said INTERPOL’s Executive Director of Police Services, Jean-Michel Louboutin who signed the MoU on behalf of the world police body.
INTERPOL and IFAW have collaborated on numerous projects since 2005, most notably Operation Worthy, INTERPOL's largest-ever anti-ivory operation and more recently on Project Web, an investigation into the illegal online trade in ivory.
“IFAW’s relationship with INTERPOL began in 2005 and has continued to grow over the years on the basis of shared goals, trust, mutual respect and responsibility. Today’s signing is a deepening of that relationship and reflects the complementary expertise that IFAW and INTERPOL bring to the table,” added Mr Downes.
IFAW is currently supporting INTERPOL in delivering training for law enforcement and customs officers at hub airports throughout East Africa. Developed under INTERPOL's Project Wisdom, the training will examine operational measures and the use of advanced investigative techniques that can be used to address the illegal trafficking of elephant ivory and other wildlife products.
“The agreement with IFAW builds on our efforts to develop a more systematic approach to gathering, managing and analysing data and information for more intelligence-led policing,” said David Higgins, Manager of the INTERPOL Environmental Crime Programme.
“The need for cooperation at all levels to effectively tackle wildlife crime and arrest those behind this illegal activity cannot be underestimated and we look forward to working even more closely with IFAW in our joint efforts to protect our shared biodiversity,” added Mr Higgins.
Please visit the INTERPOL website for more information on our projects and activities and our Twitter page @INTERPOL_EC for updates on these activities.
