Authorities make startling discovery during routine inspection — here's what they found

Animal parts have been used for medicine and for decoration for thousands of years. While there are now more laws in place to preserve animal rights and population health, there are still plenty of poachers attempting to smuggle all kinds of animals around the world.

Whether they're smuggling cheetah cubs to be pets, tortoises for meat, or rhino horns for display or medicinal purposes that have since been disproved, anytime there is an attempt to smuggle animals or their parts, it makes an impact — especially if they are endangered.

What's happening?

Mozambique's National Criminal Investigation Service has detained a group of five individuals in the Mapai district for illegal possession of 10 elephant tusks, 15 ostrich eggs, one elephant tail, and one elephant trumpet, as reported by Club of Mozambique.

The group was caught during a routine inspection and charged after failing to present any documentation. Among the group was a primary school teacher. Further investigations will continue until the origin of the animal parts is determined, which might reveal a larger wildlife trafficking network in Mozambique.

Why is illegal wildlife trafficking important?

Many of the world's most revered animals have been hunted and trafficked so much that they are now on the endangered species list. This includes the tiger, rhino, elephant, polar bear, and sea turtle. 

Illegal wildlife trafficking has already caused immense damage to ecosystems and species' populations. Ecosystems rely on a careful balance between the predators, prey, plants, pollinators, and water sources. When a major part of the food chain or the environment is eliminated, it can destroy habitats, force animals to move to a new home, or cause the food chain to collapse.

Animals' lives and animal habitats of all sizes should be treated with respect. Whether it's a small meadow getting flattened to make room for a condo or a poacher grabbing an entire pride of lions, there should be care for the animals it affects.

Just because someone is wealthier, has more land, and police connections does not mean they are above the law and should be trafficking in animals for their own amusement or to diversify their dinner party menu. 

What's being done about illegal wildlife trafficking?

The local police are asking residents to keep an eye out for any unusual animal behavior. 

For anyone traveling through truck stops, country borders, or other transit routes, it's important to report any potential criminal behavior you see to increase the likelihood that the criminals will be caught.

Do you worry about companies drilling too deep into the ground? Definitely 💯 Depends on what it's for 🤔 Only if it's near my home 🏠 Not really 😎 Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.

Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices — and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club.