Singapore makes record seizure of elephant ivory

Tuesday, 23 July 2019 14:54

Authorities in Singapore have confiscated nearly nine tonnes of elephant ivory, which is the largest ever seizure in the country.

The illegal shipment was discovered in a container from the Democratic Republic of Congo, after a tip-off from China's customs department.

Officials estimate that the tusks, valued at around $13 million (AED 47.7 million) have come from nearly 300 African elephants.

Around 12 tonnes of pangolin scales were also found in the container, which was declared to be loaded with timber.

The seized items will be destroyed.

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