Joint Enforcement Operation Seizes 10.1 Kilograms of Suspected Rhinoceros Horn at Wattay International Airport

Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR, 15 May 2026 — A joint law enforcement operation at Wattay International Airport successfully intercepted the suspected transnational trafficking of protected wildlife parts weighing approximately 10.1 kilograms.

The operation was carried out by relevant airport authorities, including customs officers, immigration police and animal and plant quarantine officers. It was supported through coordinated action under the Lao Wildlife Enforcement Network (Lao-WEN), involving the Department of Customs, the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Inspection, the Environmental Police Department, immigration authorities and animal quarantine officials.

At approximately 3:30 p.m., officers conducted an X-ray inspection of baggage associated with flight QV 924. The passenger had departed Angola on 12 May 2026 aboard flight EK 794 and travelled through two transit countries before arriving in Lao PDR.

During the inspection, officers detected suspicious objects concealed inside decorative souvenir statues. A physical examination revealed four items suspected to be rhinoceros horn, with a combined weight of approximately 10.1 kilograms, including packaging materials.

A male Vietnamese national was identified as the suspect in connection with the case. He was taken into custody for further questioning and investigation in accordance with the laws and criminal procedures of Lao PDR.

The seized items will be subject to scientific identification and forensic examination to confirm the species and determine their origin. The competent authorities will also investigate the travel route, ownership, intended destination and possible involvement of other individuals or organized trafficking networks.

The successful interception demonstrates the importance of coordinated border enforcement, intelligence sharing and the use of modern screening technology in detecting wildlife trafficking. It also reflects Lao PDR’s continued commitment to combating transnational wildlife crime and strengthening cooperation among agencies operating under Lao-WEN.

The case remains under investigation. Any legal action will be taken on the basis of verified evidence and in accordance with the applicable laws of Lao PDR.

Photographs by: Khanvichit and Phonxay
News provided by: Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Inspection
Published by: Information and Communications Technology Division, Cabinet Office, Ministry of Agriculture and Environment