Building frontline capacity to fight wildlife trafficking in Liberia

Remarkably, during the session, officers were called to respond to an active case involving monkeys-making it the third time that a live seizure has occurred in real-time during one of our CARE trainings. This is not just coincidence. It tells me we're doing the right work, in the right place, and with the right people.

We distributed confiscator kits to help officers act safely and swiftly in the field-resources they told us were urgently needed. Each kit contains essential equipment for the safe and humane handling of animals like gloves, masks, catch nets, and crates-basic tools that can make the difference between a safe rescue and a failed one. These kits help ensure the safety of both the animals and the officers on the scene.

"Empowering Liberia's frontline rangers and security with the tools to intercept wildlife crime and see it through to justice is a gamechanger," said Henry P. Toe of Liberia Chimpanzee Rescue and Protection. "This training helps ensure that every rescued animal is met with expert care, welfare, and guidance, and every prosecution is built on firm evidence. Together with the International Fund for Animal Welfare and our national partners, we are building better barriers against illegal trade, safeguarding both our natural heritage and public health."

Now, ongoing discussions are taking place with partners in Liberia about how we can continue supporting them over the coming months. What's already clear is that the appetite for this training is strong, and the potential for impact is even stronger.

This training is just one part of a global initiative under CARE to build lasting capacity where it's needed most. With additional funding and partnerships, we can extend this impact to more regions on the frontlines.

With the right support, these officers can play a critical role in stopping trafficking before it spreads. IFAW is proud to stand beside them.