Thailand sees brisk trade in illegal species

Name: Thailand sees brisk trade in illegal species
Uploaded: 2011-05-08T13:45:43.000Z
Duration: 4 min 11 s
Description: Thailand has long been considered a major hub for the illegal trade in rare and exotic species. At Bangkok's Chatuchak market, the main centre of the trade, business is brisk. As part of our wildlife SOS series, Al Jazeera's Wayne Hay met with traders at the market who openly admit to selling illegally obtained animals.

Wildlife Trafficking in Thailand: A Deep Dive

Overview of Pangolins and Wildlife Trade

173 pangolins were seized, valued over $300,000, intended for export to China for consumption and medicinal use.

The only individual apprehended was the truck driver; the masterminds behind the trafficking remain unidentified.

Thailand's Role in Illegal Wildlife Trade

Thailand is a central hub for Southeast Asia's illegal wildlife trade due to its porous borders facilitating smuggling operations.

The Chutachak Market in Bangkok serves as a significant marketplace for endangered species, showcasing the ease of purchasing such animals.

Law Enforcement Challenges

Police efforts include regular raids; however, traffickers often evade capture by adapting quickly to law enforcement tactics.

Weak Thai laws result in minimal penalties for offenders, allowing them to return to illegal activities shortly after being fined.

Video description

Thailand has long been considered a major hub for the illegal trade in rare and exotic species. At Bangkok's Chatuchak market, the main centre of the trade, business is brisk. As part of our wildlife SOS series, Al Jazeera's Wayne Hay met with traders at the market who openly admit to selling illegally obtained animals.