Lao PDR Launches Wildlife DNA Forensic Analysis Mission to Strengthen Criminal Investigations under the UNODC PELTS Initiative

Vientiane, Lao PDR, 20 July 2026 – The Department of Forestry (DoF), as the CITES Management Authority of Lao PDR, in collaboration with the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Inspection (DNEI), the CITES Scientific Authority, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and the TRACE Wildlife Forensics Network, officially launched the UNODC PELTS Mission on Wildlife Forensic DNA Analysis in Vientiane Capital.

The five-day mission (20–24 July 2026) aims to strengthen the use of wildlife forensic science in criminal investigations and prosecutions related to illegal wildlife trade. Government officials, investigators, prosecutors, and forensic experts are receiving practical training on internationally recognised techniques for DNA evidence collection, preservation, species identification, and forensic analysis.

Confiscated wildlife specimens, including rhinoceros horns, elephant ivory, pangolin scale powder, bear bile products, and other wildlife exhibits, are being analysed using DNA-based forensic methods to verify species identity and, where possible, determine their geographic origin. Following laboratory analysis in Lao PDR, DNA samples will be sent to Apical Scientific for sequencing, with the results compiled into formal forensic reports to support ongoing wildlife crime investigations and prosecutions.

The mission demonstrates Lao PDRs commitment to strengthening science-based wildlife law enforcement and enhancing the use of forensic evidence in the criminal justice system. It also reflects the strong partnership between the Government of Lao PDR, UNODC, TRACE Wildlife Forensics Network, and other national and international partners in combating transnational wildlife crime and supporting effective implementation of CITES.

Source: Department of Forestry (2026).