The National Agency for Water and Forests, in coordination with the Royal Gendarmerie and local authorities, has dismantled a network involved in the illegal trade of protected animal species during a precise field operation conducted last Sunday in the city of Sidi Bouknadel, near Salé.
The operation resulted in the seizure of dozens of rare creatures of foreign origin, including African grey parrots, pythons, scorpions, and large tarantulas, in addition to lorikeets and caiques, listed under the CITES agreement aimed at protecting endangered species.
The agency revealed that the operation led to the discovery of a secret warehouse meticulously prepared to simulate the natural environment for these animals, where two large cages containing approximately 201 illegally held birds were found.
The seized animals were transported to a specialized wildlife rehabilitation center to ensure their safety and subject them to veterinary monitoring. Meanwhile, authorities have initiated an investigation to identify potential perpetrators and networks related to this illegal activity, as stipulated by Law No. 05-29 concerning the protection of wildlife and the regulation of its trade.
This intervention is part of Morocco’s ongoing efforts to combat the trafficking of endangered species, fulfilling its international commitments under the CITES agreement, to which it acceded in 1975, while enhancing its policies aimed at preserving biodiversity and protecting environmental balances.
The National Agency for Water and Forests urged citizens to avoid purchasing imported animals unless they are accompanied by official documents proving their legal source, emphasizing the importance of collective cooperation in combating the illegal wildlife trade.
