Vietnam Seizes Nearly 1.2 Tonnes of Ivory Hidden in Timber Shipment
Vietnamese authorities have intercepted nearly 1.2 tonnes of elephant ivory concealed in a timber consignment shipped from the Republic of the Congo, exposing another suspected international wildlife trafficking operation.
The seizure was made at Quy Nhon Port in central Vietnam, where investigators discovered 221 pieces of ivory alongside about 79 kilogrammes of animal bones. The materials had reportedly been packed inside specially altered wooden crates designed to conceal the contraband and avoid detection during routine inspections.
Investigators found that the crates had been fitted with concealed compartments, with the illegal materials sealed and reinforced with additional wood to make the shipment appear legitimate. Laboratory examinations later identified the seized ivory as belonging to the Elephantidae family, which includes African elephants.
Several suspects have been detained as Vietnamese authorities begin criminal proceedings and investigate the wider trafficking network. Officials are also working to establish the shipment’s full route, identify other individuals involved and determine how the contraband was moved from Africa to Vietnam.
