California disrupts international wildlife poaching network

~ SACRAMENTO - In a major breakthrough, California has successfully disrupted an international wildlife poaching network, Governor Gavin Newsom announced today. The operation uncovered several major trafficking operations, including one that was involved in the illegal trade of products made from endangered species.

Governor Newsom emphasized that California will not tolerate any form of illicit trafficking, especially when it comes to wildlife. He stated, "The international illegal market for these products encourages poaching and threatens global biodiversity - California wants no part of it. We're using every tool at our disposal to catch and shut down these trafficking rings."

This year marks the 10-year anniversary of AB 96, a landmark legislation that banned the sale of ivory in California. This legislation has strengthened the authority and ability of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) to combat illegal wildlife trafficking and protect global biodiversity.

Nathaniel Arnold, CDFW Deputy Director and Chief of Law Enforcement, highlighted the importance of AB 96 in this investigation. He stated, "California is the most populous state in the U.S. and a major hub of international trade, where the fight to stop wildlife trafficking can have global impacts." He also reaffirmed CDFW's commitment to working with state, federal, and international partners to aggressively identify, disrupt, and dismantle these illicit markets.

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In Fresno this month, CDFW law enforcement officers seized hundreds of illegal products made from ivory and elephant as well as other products from poached animals such as rhino horns, walrus tusks, bear gall bladders, saiga antelope horns, and turtle shells. The investigation was initiated after a shipment from Thailand was intercepted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on its way to Fresno. The shipment contained four elephant trunks which were confirmed by CDFW to be from Asian elephants - a protected species under CITES.

In addition to this operation in Fresno, CDFW officers in Madera County shut down an illegal rooster-fighting ring and seized illegal derivatives of protected kestrel falcons. They also recovered a prohibited firearm suppressor. Charges were filed with Madera County Animal Services and the Madera County District Attorney's office.

In Fresno County, three suspects have been booked into the county jail and are facing charges related to wildlife trafficking violations under the California Fish and Game Code. Charges will also be filed with the Fresno and Madera County district attorney's offices.

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These efforts are a testament to California's ongoing commitment to protect biodiversity both globally and within the state. The public can also play a role in this fight against wildlife trafficking by reporting any suspicious activity through the CalTIP program or by submitting anonymous tips via text to TIP411.

In other news, Governor Newsom has proclaimed January 23, 2026, as Ed Roberts Day in honor of the "Father of Independent Living." He also announced that California has become the first state to join a WHO-coordinated global outbreak response network, strengthening rapid detection and response to emerging public health threats.

At the World Economic Forum, Governor Newsom highlighted California's success in surpassing its clean car goal by selling over 2.5 million zero-emission vehicles despite challenges from the Trump administration. This serves as proof that stable climate policy can drive economic results.

California continues to lead the way in protecting our planet and promoting global cooperation for a better future.

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