International Police, commonly known as INTERPOL,is calling for the public’s help in locating seven international fugitives wanted for alleged environmental crimes.
The appeal, which coincided with the World Environment Day (June 5), is a stark reminder of how organised crime continually seeks to profit from the environment and its natural resources.
The seven individuals are the subject of INTERPOL Red Notices for internationally wanted persons.
Their offences include dumping hazardous waste, illegal logging and ivory smuggling.
They include two Albanian men alleged to have illegally logged a state forest in Greece and two Chinese men wanted for smuggling protected species.
Jürgen Stock, Interpol’s secretary general, said: “Environmental crime is occurring on an industrial scale, with transnational organised crime groups making billions in profits whilst undermining the rule of law and threatening national security.”
Mr. Stock added: “Environmental crimes have a global impact, which require a global response.”
The seven most wanted are:
Guo Qin HUANG, 42, wanted by China for smuggling protected species and their derived products.
Nicholas Mweri JEFWA, 44, wanted by Kenya for illicitly dealing in wildlife trophies and organised criminal activity.
Samuel Bakari JEFWA, 29, wanted by Kenya for illicitly dealing in wildlife trophies and organised criminal activity.
Ergest MEMO, 34, wanted by Greece for illegal logging in a protected forest.
Taulant MEMO, 33, wanted by Greece for illegal logging in a protected forest and for illegally carrying a gun.
Bhekumusa Mawillis SHIBA, 39, wanted by Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) for wildlife offences.
Muk Nam WONG, 62, wanted by China for smuggling protected species and their derived products.
