Overview

• Two suspected organizers of an international wildlife trafficking network have been arrested in La Réunion, with several others questioned.
• Authorities seized 18 protected birds, including macaws and blue-fronted amazons, and one endangered tortoise during the operation.
• The network used social media to sell protected species to local enthusiasts, highlighting the role of online platforms in illegal wildlife trade.
• The investigation was led by Oclaesp and the Office français de la biodiversité under the oversight of the Saint-Pierre judicial tribunal.
• The suspects face up to seven years in prison and fines of up to €750,000, pending their trial under judicial control.