Libreville, 06 May 2025. As part of a joint operation carried out in Oyem, in the province of Woleu-Ntem, the Anti-Poaching Division of the Ministry of Water and Forests (DLCB), the Provincial Water and Forests Division of Woleu-Ntem and the General Research Division (DGR) of Oyem, supported by the NGO Conservation Justice (CJ), apprehended three suspected ivory traffickers on 25 April 2025 with six whole ivory points in their possession, which they were trying to sell.
The three suspected wildlife traffickers were caught in the act of illegally possessing six ivory tips, trophies of animals whose possession and sale are strictly prohibited in Gabon.
The bust took place on 25 April 2025 in Oyem, the provincial capital of Woleu-Ntem. As part of a special operation, members of the DGR and the Eaux et Forêts, with the support of the NGO
Conservation Justice, arrested two people suspected of wildlife trafficking. The suspects, both Gabonese, were preparing to conclude the sale of elephant ivory, a species that is fully protected in Gabon.
They were immediately taken to the DGR premises for questioning. During questioning, one of the two alleged traffickers named the owner of two of the six ivory points. This new suspect was then arrested in Ebeigne, a village a few kilometres from the town of Oyem.
The three alleged ivory traffickers were initially referred to the Libreville Special Public Prosecutor’s Office before being released on bail. This is an exceptional case, given that most suspected ivory traffickers arrested in Gabon in flagrante delicto are remanded in custody. And nearly 80% of the alleged ivory traffickers arrested are sentenced to prison. They will be heard in court on 9 May 2025 to determine their fate.
For possessing and attempting to illegally sell ivory, a trophy of animals that are fully protected in Gabon, the three alleged traffickers risk a prison sentence of up to ten (10) years and a fine equivalent to five times the value of the product seized, in accordance with articles 390 and 398 of the Penal Code.
The Gabonese authorities remain faithful to their commitment to combat trafficking, particularly of ivory, in Gabon. This latest operation is further confirmation of the Ministry of Water and Forests’ commitment to good governance of natural resources.
Boris Ngounou
