Operation Long-Tailed Liberation is an active law enforcement initiative by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) aimed at combating illegal trafficking of long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) from Cambodia to the United States. Initiated in May 2018 under Executive Order 13773, the operation targets transnational criminal organizations involved in wildlife trafficking.

Background

Long-tailed macaques are commonly used in biomedical research and are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The COVID-19 pandemic led to China’s restrictions on wildlife exports, causing a surge in demand from other countries, including Cambodia. Between 2018 and 2022, the US imported 155,772 live non-human primates, with 42.4% originating from Cambodia.

Operation Details

The USFWS’s Office of Law Enforcement employs various investigative techniques, such as undercover operations and informants, in coordination with the Department of Justice and international partners. The operation focuses on ensuring compliance with CITES and US laws to prevent illegal wildlife trade.

Recent Developments

On September 10, 2024, USFWS Director Martha Williams testified before the House Subcommittee on Oversight…