Bryan Christy of National Geographic investigates illegal wildlife smuggling. Photo by Michael Bryant.
If snow leopards and other endangered wildlife protection is going to be meaningful then prosecution for offenders is vital. Good news today that Anson Wong from Penang in Malaysia, dubbed “ the world’s most notorious wildlife dealer, has been sentenced to prison after a lock on his suitcase containing legally protected snakes broke on an airport conveyor belt.
Wong has smuggled many species of critically endangered wildlife including snow leopard pelts.
National Geographic’s Bryan Christy wrote an expose of Wong’s activities in January this year which helped spur the Malaysian government to action.
Anson Wong sentenced for wildlife smuggling.
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I remember reading this article in NatGeo and was amazed at the fact that despite his record and notoriety that nobody could catch this guy. Absolultely fantastic that they finally got him and I hope he gets what he deserves.
What a good new, hopefully many others like him will be stopped , it´s not possible that they kill and trade animals for their skins and furs. The most beautiful in this world is to see this animals and their fur but in them, Keep working and protect this lovely animals.
that is so horrible I am going to make a book about snow leopards and a movie for you tube.so anyway I was wandering if I could use some of your pics?
p.s. my school has no snow leopard’s!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
How long was he sentenced for? Realistically, how long will he bi IN for? I think a(nother) problem is that when people are sentenced, they don’t stay in long, get out and pick up where they left off. This guy has plenty of money to pay of officials, can’t imagine he’s not going to try. I also remember reading that his wife is taking care of business while he’s “on vacation”. Any information on this?
How long was he sentenced for? Realistically, how long will he be IN for? I think a(nother) problem is that when people like him are sentenced, they don’t stay in long, get out and pick up where they left off. This guy has plenty of money to pay off officials, I can’t imagine he’s not going to try. I also remember reading that his wife is taking care of business while he’s “on vacation”. Any information on this?
You’ve made some good points. I agree often that sentences and fines are not enough, especially for the Mr Bigs who can easily pay. Certainly there is evidence his wife had been involved in the past. Will keep an eye out for followup, thanks for posting.