Back in March, local police in Lai Chau province exposed an elusive trafficking case involving two Asiatic black bears. The men were arrested and the two bears were transferred to Tam Dao Bear Rescue Center.
After three months’ investigation, one subject was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment for capturing the bears with intent to sell whilst the other subject was sentenced to 24 months’ probation as he assisted the hunter once the bears were transported to their dealing location.
Asiatic black bears are listed under Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). Vietnamese Decree 32/2006/NĐ-CP also prohibits the exploitation, use and trafficking of such bears. Let’s hope the severe punishments will prevent others from committing similar crimes.
Photo courtesy of Lai Chau police
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