Illegal wildlife trade in Nepal : a case study from Kathmandu Valley

Abstract

Illegal wildlife trade is burgeoning issues in the world. Many research and reports have revealed that an extent of illegal trade is expanding despite there are national and international laws including conventions. This study provides a general overview of illegal wildlife trade such as wildlife species, suspects and convicted perpetrators, and law enforcement in Kathmandu Valley. All information is based on wildlife seizures and arrests in the valley of the period from 2003 to 2013. The information comprises of 167 wildlife crime cases against 414 individuals representing from 52 districts among 75 districts of Nepal. All the cases have been prosecuted under National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 1973 and District Forest Offices have adjudicated over the cases as quasi-judge. Though there are wide ranges between minimum and maximum punishments in the law, court decision of some cases has gone beyond the laws such as under and over law punishments. There seems a need of law amendment for covering all type illegal wildlife trade and maintain equal justice for all, which will strengthen to fight against illegal wildlife trade in the country.