Target: Ricardo Lewandowski, Minister of Justice and Public Security, Brasília, Federal District, Brazil
Goal: Seek maximum penalties, asset seizures, and lifetime wildlife-trade bans for all parties reportedly involved in a decades-long trafficking ring.
Authorities announced a sweeping operation that reportedly dismantled a highly structured wildlife ring after a year-long probe. Police reportedly arrested 47 suspects and rescued more than 800 animals. Among the victims were toucans, macaws, monkeys, tortoises, and a python, many reportedly boxed up or sedated for sale. More than 1,000 officers took part. The scale signals industrial cruelty, as alleged.
Officials described a chain in which some members reportedly hunted animals in bulk while others transported them into cities for sale. One subgroup allegedly drugged primates before moving them. Investigators also reported weapons and ammunition tied to various crimes. Such details point to organized exploitation that inflicts suffering before animals reach markets, where many reportedly die.
Strong punishment deters copycats and protects biodiversity. Criminal charges should reportedly be pursued to the fullest extent for every animal harmed. Courts should order permanent wildlife-trade bans, forfeiture of profits and vehicles, and restitution for veterinary care. Buyers identified by investigators should face charges where supported by evidence. This petition calls for visible, proportionate penalties that match the alleged brutality.
PETITION LETTER:
Minister Lewandowski,
We commend the coordinated operation that reportedly rescued hundreds of wild animals while arresting dozens of suspects tied to a long-running trafficking ring. Reports describe toucans, macaws, monkeys, tortoises, and even a python pulled from boxes and cages. Some primates were allegedly drugged before transport. This conduct appears organized, profitable, and cruel.
We urge your ministry to ensure prosecutors pursue maximum penalties supported by evidence for wildlife crimes, conspiracy, money laundering, and firearms offenses where applicable. Please prioritize lifetime bans on keeping, trading, or transporting wild fauna, along with asset forfeiture and restitution that covers medical care and rehabilitation costs.
We further ask for focused enforcement against demand. Buyers reportedly identified during the probe should face charges where evidence allows. Sustained stings, transport corridor checks, and online-market takedowns will help prevent a rapid rebound. Visible accountability here will save animals, support rescuers, and signal that Brazil will not tolerate alleged wildlife trafficking.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: safaritravelplus
