Global Wildlife Trafficking Hits Record Levels in 2025: Interpol's Operation Thunder Intercepts 30,000 Animals

Dec 11, 2025 07:31 pm CST

Interpol reports unprecedented surge in wildlife trafficking with a record-breaking seizure of nearly 30,000 animals during Operation Thunder 2025. The $20 billion illegal industry spans exotic pets, endangered species parts, and bushmeat, with enforcement actions across 134 countries resulting in 1,100 suspect detentions.