Wildlife Crime Investigation

Illegal wildlife trades have become a massive business, SUMECO is prioritized to provide a quick response to detected trafficked animals, SUMECO rescue operation areas are also focused on the local settlements bordering Gunung Leuser National Park, especially nearby Bukit Lawang. The areas that will benefit from this project are the areas covering the Leuser ecosystem and ecotourism areas, it will also benefit the biodiversity of the rest of the Sumatran ecosystem. This project may be extended or deployed to the entire perimeter of Gunung Leuser National Park, particularly in Aceh province, but it is entirely dependent on our financial resources.

All animals that have been rescued by SUMECO and the authorities of Gunung Leuser National Park will be returned to Gunung Leuser National Park near Bukit Lawang. Most animals that have been rescued, are also transported to BBKSDASU (Nature Conservation Agency) in the Sibolangit wildlife rehabilitation center.

Our top aim is to support the prosecution of those who commit crimes against wildlife. As Indonesian citizens concerned with the protection of endangered species in the region of Sumatra’s Gunung Leuser National Park, we always act in accordance with the law. Investigation of wildlife crimes is a low-interest profession because they are seen as minor offenses.

Wildlife crime investigation refers to the process of investigating crimes related to the illegal trade, poaching, and trafficking of wildlife and their products. It involves identifying, gathering, and analyzing evidence to build a case against individuals or criminal networks involved in such activities.

Here are some key aspects of wildlife crime investigation:

1. Collaboration: Wildlife crime investigations often require collaboration among various agencies and organizations, including law enforcement agencies, conservation groups, government departments, and international bodies. Cooperation and information sharing are crucial to effectively combat wildlife crimes that often cross national and international borders.

2. Specialized Units: Many countries have specialized units or task forces dedicated to wildlife crime investigation. These units consist of trained investigators who have expertise in wildlife law enforcement, forensics, intelligence gathering, and surveillance techniques.

3. Intelligence Gathering: Gathering intelligence is a critical part of wildlife crime investigations. Investigators may rely on various sources such as informants, undercover operations, surveillance, and analysis of seized documents or electronic devices to gather information about criminal networks and their activities.

4. Forensic Techniques: Forensic techniques play a vital role in wildlife crime investigations. Investigators utilize forensic tools and methods to examine seized wildlife products, such as ivory, rhino horn, or animal skins, to determine their origin, species, and other relevant information. DNA analysis, fingerprinting, and other forensic techniques help establish a strong evidentiary link between the crime and the perpetrators.

5. Undercover Operations: Undercover operations are frequently employed in wildlife crime investigations to identify and infiltrate criminal networks involved in illegal wildlife trade. Investigators may pose as buyers, traders, or middlemen to gather evidence and gain the trust of the criminals.

6. International Cooperation: Wildlife crime is often transnational in nature, involving the illegal movement of wildlife and their products across borders. International cooperation is crucial for effective investigations and prosecution. Countries may work together through mutual legal assistance treaties, joint operations, and information sharing to combat wildlife crimes.

7. Prosecution: Successful wildlife crime investigations aim to gather sufficient evidence to prosecute offenders. Investigators work closely with prosecutors to build a strong case that can withstand legal scrutiny in court. Prosecution of wildlife criminals sends a strong message and serves as a deterrent to others involved in illegal wildlife trade.

8. Public Awareness and Education: Wildlife crime investigations are not limited to enforcement actions. Public awareness campaigns and education programs play a vital role in preventing wildlife crimes by raising awareness about the importance of conservation, the impacts of illegal wildlife trade, and the role individuals can play in reporting suspicious activities.

Overall, wildlife crime investigations require a multi-faceted approach that combines law enforcement, forensics, intelligence gathering, and international cooperation to combat the illegal trade and protect endangered species.