Customs Has New Tool In Fight Against Illegal Wildlife Trafficking

March 3, 2016

The Jamaica Customs Agency is now better equipped to prevent the illegal trafficking of wildlife. This, as the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) in collaboration with the Scientific Authority of Jamaica today (March 3) handed over an electronic tool kit to the Jamaica Customs Agency.

The tool kit contains information on local laws and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).

Commissioner of Customs, Major Richard Reese said that the new resource would act as a guide to the Agency’s officers who are often on the front line in the fight against illegal trade in endemic and endangered animals and plants.

"When poachers trade endangered animals and plants, the point of entry or exit is usually from one of the island's ports. This tool kit provides customs officers with a comprehensive refresher course on the detection of infractions and the requirements of the proper reporting procedures" said Major Reese.

The toolkit handover took place as part of NEPA’s activities to celebrate World Wildlife Day. This year’s theme for the internationally recognized calendar day is 'The future of wildlife is in our hands'.

Peter Knight, Chief Executive Officer at NEPA said that the Agency had in recent years dealt with many reports of illegally traded endemic animals and plants, particularly the island’s birds.

Mr. Knight further stated that in addition to sensitizing customs officers, the Agency would be heightening its public awareness and education campaign regarding environmental laws and would continue with its thrust to enforce these laws.

Yvette Strong (left), Senior Manager, Conservation and Protection Sub Division at the National Environment and Planning Agency presents Claudette Hill of the Jamaica Customs Agency with a new electronic tool kit containing information on local laws and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). The toolkit strengthens the Customs Agency’s ability to fight against illegal trade in wildlife. The presentation was made on Thursday March 3 at the Institute of Jamaica’s lecture theatre in Kingston.