Caught in the Act: Police Officer, Accomplice Arrested for Smuggling Leopard Skins

In a crackdown on wildlife trafficking, authorities apprehended two suspects, including a police officer, on December 17 in Yaoundé for illegal possession of leopard skins.

The operation, conducted by officials from the Center Regional Delegation of Forestry and Wildlife in partnership with the Regional Division of Judicial Police, targeted a trafficking ring suspected to operate between Cameroon and Gabon. The suspects were caught red-handed attempting to sell two leopard skins hidden in a bag in the Nsimeyong neighborhood.

Sources close to the investigation revealed that the leopard skins, which were freshly smuggled from Gabon, had been hidden at the residence of one suspect in Tsinga for ten days. During this time, the skins were dried in the sun to prepare them for sale, using the suspect's occupation as a driver to facilitate their transport.

The operation received crucial support from the Last Great Ape Organisation (LAGA), an entity dedicated to wildlife enforcement. 

Leopards are classified under Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), which Cameroon has ratified. This designation affords the species the highest level of protection, making any trade in leopards illegal.

Under the country's wildlife laws enacted in 2024, if convicted, the suspects could face up to 20 years in prison and fines reaching 50 million FCFA. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges in the fight against wildlife crime and the need for continued vigilance by authorities.

 

By Bamenjo Petronilla 

Source: LAGA