As part of the international “Operation Thunder,” Border Force officers at Dover intercepted significant shipments of endangered wildlife smuggled from Europe. These seizures contributed to a 73% annual increase in wildlife recoveries across the UK.
Key Incidents at the Port of Dover:
- Reptiles: Two rainbow boa constrictors were discovered hidden under blankets in a vehicle. The driver had purchased the snakes at a German reptile show without the required CITES licenses.
- Birds: Over 100 endangered birds—including scarlet ibis, green-cheeked conures, and lovebirds—were found “crammed” into a car in filthy conditions. Several birds died during transit.
- Insects: A single vehicle was intercepted transporting over 2,000 live tarantulas with an estimated black-market value of £70,000. The haul included 300 protected species.
Context and Consequences
Wildlife crime is the world’s fourth-largest international crime, valued at up to £17 billion annually. Home Office Minister Mike Tapp emphasized that the government is taking an intelligence-led approach to dismantle these criminal business models, warning that any illegal imports via air, sea, or post will result in prosecution.