Every day, people commit crimes. Sadly, no matter how many rules and regulations we put in place, that will probably never change.
But when certain crimes are committed, they don't just hurt humans. They hurt innocent animals and the beautiful nature they inhabit — and all for a quick buck on a black market.
Thankfully, however, there are humans out there who go above and beyond to save our precious wildlife. These caring souls might not wear capes or make national news, but they are, without a doubt, heroes.
And recently, as reported by the Mirror, the U.K. Border Force has completed an investigation that definitely seals their status as wildlife heroes.
Thanks to the hard work of many countries and their respective police forces, a smuggling ring has just been busted — and the findings are shocking.
Please be warned: The photos below help to tell the story of criminals selling hunted animal furs, tusks, etc. on the black market. Some images may not be suitable for readers who are sensitive to such a topic. We include these photos only to help illustrate what a grave situation this truly is.
How does this illegal discovery make you feel? After watching the video below, be sure to let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Please SHARE if you respect the amazing work of these customs officers!
It took six weeks and 28 police investigations, but the customs staff of the U.K. Border Force has finally detained a special shipment — and its contents are chilling.
With the help of 62 countries, "Operation Cobra 3" has successfully seized more than 300 different animals, plants, and their derivatives.
According to Border Force, as they told the Mirror, the U.K. is an important hub for criminal gangs and smugglers of products from endangered animals — including ivory from critically-at-risk rhinos in Africa.
In addition to ivory and furs, customs seized 166 turquoise blue geckos; 10,000 sea horses; 400 Horsefield tortoises; and 11 black bear claws.
There were also many hides, stuffed animals, and products illegally made from animal parts.
But there were also live animals at the scene, some of which were found in cigarette packs.
Critically endangered iguanas were found stuffed into socks and hidden in suitcases.
Despite there being a legal wildlife trade, smugglers do not follow these rules and regulations. The goods they smuggle are fed into the black market, which is often linked to terrorist activities.
But it's not just animals that were seized by the U.K. Border Force. They also found 23 orchids and cacti, and made 157 seizures of health supplements. These are new items popping up on the illegal trade markets.
Altogether, thousands of pounds of illegal wares — valued at many millions of dollars — have been successfully saved from the black markets of the world. Our thanks and respect go out to all those involved in this seizure — and we hope these atroci
Be sure to watch the video below, and please SHARE if you feel that illegal hunting and trade need to be stopped!
