Investigators from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) have reportedly uncovered a significant illegal trafficking operation dealing in animal parts within Los Angeles County. Tied to a local business, the illicit operation included at least nine rhino horns, numerous pieces of elephant ivory, intricately carved tusks, and a sea turtle shell, according to a KTLA report. These items, believed to be part of a much larger network, have been seized as evidence to be examined and verified at the CDFW's Wildlife Forensics Lab.
Marking the 10th anniversary of California's statewide ban on ivory and rhino horn sales, Nathaniel Arnold, CDFW Deputy Director and Chief of Law Enforcement, emphasized the state's unyielding stance. "California was among the first to take a stand against the ivory trade, and our commitment has not wavered," Arnold said in a statement obtained by KTLA. "These operations send a clear message that we will continue to hold accountable those who profit from the destruction of wildlife." Found in the illegal collections, these items highlight the international craving for ivory and rhino horn that spurs poaching and organized crime.
Originally enacted a decade ago, California's law banning ivory and rhino horn sales was born from Assembly Bill 96, authored by then-Assembly Speaker Toni Atkins and enacted by Gov. Jerry Brown in 2015. The law, coming into effect in 2016, expanded enforcement authority, equipping CDFW officers with the necessary tools to dismantle wildlife-trafficking operations, as per information detailed in the KTLA article. The law made California the third state in the nation to outlaw such sales.
CDFW has openly called on the public to assist in the fight against wildlife trafficking by reporting any related information through their CalTIP program. Touting an anonymous text line and hotline, CDFW encourages anyone with information about wildlife trafficking or poaching to report it. Tips can be sent to TIP411 (847411) or by calling 888-334-CALTIP (2258). Further information on the seizure and ongoing investigations can be accessed via the CDFW Facebook Page.
