DNA analysis used to halt wildlife trafficking

Uganda is using DNA analysis and specialised forensic testing to strengthen investigations into wildlife trafficking and illegal logging, reports Channel Africa. ‘Poachers are removing identification features from wildlife carcasses to evade detection,’ laboratory manager Patrick Chiyo said. He said Uganda’s Wildlife Court was increasingly requiring DNA evidence, while stronger scientific reports were contributing to more guilty pleas. The laboratory examines elephant ivory, pangolin scales, bushmeat and other wildlife products seized by police and conservation authorities. Evidence is photographed before and after sampling, while sealed samples are transported to the laboratory and the original exhibits remain in police custody. Uganda is considered an important transit point for organised wildlife trafficking networks, particularly those dealing in elephant ivory and pangolin products. Uganda Wildlife Authority Representative Bashir Hangi said elephants, pangolins, primates and some bird species were among the animals most threatened by poaching and illegal trade. Chiyo said enforcement should target both people who kill or capture wildlife and senior figures profiting from trafficking networks.