Training course on Illegal wildlife trafficking

Illegal wildlife trafficking is not only a criminal offence but it is one of the “Predicate offenses” in Laos that can be at the origin of a money laundering offence. To help address transnational crimes, as of course money laundering, ILSTA supported the Lao government by collaborating with the Office of the Supreme People’s Prosecutor and organized an intensive two-week training course in Champasack province enhancing the skills of Lao officials in investigating and prosecuting wildlife crimes and money laundering.
The training involved various officials, including police, prosecutors, forest inspectors, customs officers, and the military, along with non-law enforcement bodies like AMLIO and MOFA. They learned special investigation techniques to handle simulated wildlife crime cases. This initiative followed a successful program for northern officers and extended the training nationwide.
This effort is significant as Lao PDR is currently suspended by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) for non-compliance with international standards. The country is also under review by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and has been evaluated by the Asia Pacific Group (APG) for its money laundering and terrorism financing compliance.
Demonstrating the capacity to effectively investigate and prosecute transnational crimes, such as wildlife crime and money laundering, is crucial for meeting CITES and FATF requirements.
This collaborative effort highlights the commitment of Luxembourg, ILSTA to combat wildlife crime and strengthen compliance of anti-money laundering measures.