Istanbul Police Seize 396 Taxidermied Specimens of Protected Wild Animals

In a recent operation carried out by the Istanbul Police Department’s Anti-Smuggling and Organized Crime Branch, a startling discovery shed light on the illicit trade of taxidermied specimens of protected wild animals. The operation, conducted in the districts of Sarıyer and Arnavutköy in Istanbul, resulted in the confiscation of 396 pieces of processed ornamental items and taxidermied animals.

The suspect, identified as Ali H.Ü., was apprehended following a tip-off about an individual engaging in the trade of stuffed remains of wild animals as decorative items. Investigations led the authorities to two separate addresses where hundreds of animals were taxidermied for display and trade. During the raid, a wide array of taxidermied specimens and trophies of wildlife were seized, including species such as deer, American antelope, bison, jaguar, crocodile, bear, and mountain goat. The approximate market value of these seized items was staggering, totaling TL 75 million ($2.3 million).

What’s particularly alarming is the revelation that the suspect, Ali H.Ü., was not only involved in hunting and taxidermy domestically but also internationally. Reports indicate that he is a professional hunter who has operated in more than 30 countries. Shockingly, it was discovered that Ali H.Ü. was responsible for the killing of the last Anatolian tiger in Hakkari, Turkey, and had displayed its skin as a trophy.

The seized materials, which include trophies, hides, and assorted animal parts such as horns and teeth, represent a significant blow to the illegal wildlife trade. These items will now be handed over to the Directorate General of Nature Conservation and National Parks officials for further action.

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