Operation Lead was undertaken in 12 countries in Central and South America, involving inspections and investigations on vehicles, retail premises and individuals, as well as surveillance at ports and transport centres. About 118 people are now under investigation.
“The intelligence gathered during this first phase of Operation Lead will be used as a foundation for more incisive actions against illegal logging to be taken by Interpol, in co-operation with its member countries,” said David Higgins, programme manager of Interpol’s environmental crime programme.
