Lusaka, Zambia – Safari Club International (SCI), in partnership with the Professional Guides and Outfitters Association of Zambia (PGOAZ), is proud to have supported a critical wildlife crime investigation that led to the successful disruption of a major poaching syndicate operating in southern Zambia.
“This is a powerful example of what collaboration can achieve,” said W. Laird Hamberlin, CEO of Safari Club International. “SCI is honored to play a part in supporting real-world enforcement that disrupts wildlife trafficking networks and brings offenders to justice. Our partnership with PGOAZ and our shared commitment to conservation in Zambia will continue.”
The investigation, led by the Intelligence and Investigations Unit (IIU) of the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW), was initiated in response to the poaching of a rhino in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. With support from SCI and PGOAZ, the IIU was able to intensify its efforts, resulting in the interception of over half a ton of ivory destined for the Democratic Republic of Congo. Authorities arrested five individuals, including a Congolese national identified as a regional ivory kingpin, for violations under the Wildlife Act No. 14 of the Laws of Zambia.
“Zambia is one of Africa’s most important conservation frontiers,” added John McLaurin, President of Safari Club International. “This success shows what’s possible when law enforcement, local operators, and international partners work together. SCI will continue to stand with those on the ground protecting wildlife and prosecuting those who exploit it.”
This support was made possible in part through proceeds from the PGOAZ Annual General Meeting (AGM), where SCI funding helped facilitate an auction to raise conservation funds. Proceeds from the auction were donated to DNPW and used to support operational costs tied to the investigation, including reward monies for informants, transportation, and field deployment expenses.
“The support provided by SCI and the Professional Guides and Outfitters Association was critical in advancing this investigation,” said a spokesperson from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife. “It allowed our team to collect actionable intelligence, conduct high-impact fieldwork, and track members of a transnational poaching network. We commend their commitment to conservation and the rule of law.”
SCI reaffirms its dedication to supporting community-driven conservation, sustainable use, and the protection of Africa’s most iconic species. Together with partners across Africa, SCI remains on the front lines of defending wildlife and the future of regulated hunting as a conservation tool.