Monday 11 March 2013

Lab bids to combat species smuggling


By David Shukman,  Science editor, BBC News

The latest forensic science is being harnessed in a bid to combat the international crime gangs killing and smuggling endangered species.


A new laboratory in the Thai capital Bangkok, equipped to gather DNA from elephant tusk, rhino horn and tiger skin, is on the front line in an increasingly desperate effort.

The move comes as wildlife trading moves into the major league of lucrative international criminal activities including the trafficking of drugs and weapons.

Rapidly growing demand for animal parts believed to have cultural or medicinal value has fuelled soaring prices and created greater incentives for poachers and dealers.

The lab's aim is to "prove the link between the victim and the suspect and support prosecutions", according to the scientists running the facility.

Conservation groups say the slaughter of elephant, rhino and tiger, along with other threatened species, has reached alarming levels and that only a concerted and sophisticated campaign will help.

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