LAO-WEN Conducts Major Enforcement Operation Against Suspected Illegal Trade in Protected Wildlife Specimens in Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang Province, Lao PDR – 13 June 2026

The Lao Wildlife and Forest Law Enforcement Network (LAO-WEN) successfully conducted an enforcement operation targeting the suspected illegal trade of wildlife parts and wildlife-derived products resembling protected species in Luang Prabang Province. The operation forms part of the Government of Lao PDR’s ongoing efforts to combat wildlife crime, strengthen biodiversity conservation, and fulfill national and international commitments under wildlife protection legislation and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

During the inspection, authorities discovered a substantial quantity of wildlife parts and products suspected to originate from protected species. The items were seized as evidence pending forensic examination and legal verification. The confiscated materials included:

• 968 pieces resembling elephant ivory, weighing 21.57 kilograms;
• 112 items resembling animal bile products, weighing 14.88 kilograms;
• 9 bags of items resembling pangolin scales, weighing 10.63 kilograms;
• 559 items resembling rhinoceros horn, weighing 10.07 kilograms;
• 79 boxes of products resembling elephant skin powder, weighing 2.99 kilograms;
• 8 boxes of products resembling bear bile, weighing 0.47 kilograms;
• 2 items resembling hornbill heads, weighing 0.12 kilograms;
• 700 tubes of herbal medicine suspected of containing wildlife-derived ingredients; and
• 9 processing machines allegedly used in the manufacture and processing of wildlife products.

The seizure represents one of the most significant recent enforcement actions involving suspected wildlife contraband in Luang Prabang Province and demonstrates the continued vigilance of Lao authorities in addressing illegal wildlife trade networks.

Following the operation, LAO-WEN officers detained a male Chinese national believed to be connected to the activities under investigation. The individual has been transferred to the competent authorities for investigation and legal proceedings in accordance with the laws and regulations of the Lao PDR.

Authorities emphasized that all confiscated specimens are currently regarded as items resembling protected wildlife species pending scientific identification and verification by relevant experts. Investigations remain ongoing to determine the origin of the specimens, identify any additional individuals involved, and establish potential links to domestic or transnational wildlife trafficking networks.

The Government of Lao PDR remains firmly committed to combating illegal wildlife trade through strengthened inter-agency cooperation, intelligence-led enforcement, and enhanced implementation of the Law on Wild Animals (2023), Decree No. 299/GOV on CITES Implementation (2024), and other relevant legislation. Such efforts contribute to safeguarding the country’s rich biodiversity and preventing the illegal exploitation of endangered species.

Authorities call upon the public, businesses, and local communities to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by reporting suspected wildlife crimes and supporting national efforts to conserve wildlife and natural resources for future generations.

Photo: Khanvichit
Source: Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Inspection
Published by: Information and Communication Technology Division, Office of the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment.