DGSN Leads Efforts to Combat Forest Offenses, Protect Wildlife

DGSN Leads Efforts to Combat Forest Offenses, Protect Wildlife – Official

29 avril 2024 Printable Version

Rabat - In a concerted effort to tackle illicit activities threatening forest ecosystems and wildlife, the General Directorate of National Security (DGSN) has reiterated its commitment to mobilize all available resources. This commitment was underscored during a recent study day focused on combating forest offenses, held at the Royal Police Institute (IRP) in Kenitra.

The DGSN, in collaboration with the National Agency for Water and Forests (ANEF), highlighted the importance of preserving forest heritage as a top priority within its operational domains. Mohamed Dkhissi, the Central Director of Judicial Police at the DGSN, emphasized the pivotal role of law enforcement agencies in safeguarding forest resources and combating environmental crimes.

Addressing attendees, Dkhissi outlined the DGSN's strategic vision for 2022-2026, which places significant emphasis on preventing and suppressing illegal activities targeting forest ecosystems and wildlife. Recent successes in thwarting international trafficking operations, particularly involving protected reptiles and fish destined for Asian markets, were cited as examples of effective enforcement efforts.

Moreover, Dkhissi highlighted the DGSN's active participation in international security operations coordinated by INTERPOL, aimed at combating trafficking in protected plant and animal species, as well as timber smuggling.

The study day also served as a platform for discussing legislative initiatives aimed at enhancing the legal framework for forest management and conservation. Dkhissi referenced draft legislation pertaining to forest preservation and sustainable development, emphasizing its potential to align with national strategies such as "Forests of Morocco 2020-2030."

Furthermore, the event emphasized the importance of interagency cooperation and coordination in addressing common challenges. Joint training programs and data-sharing initiatives were proposed to strengthen collaboration between law enforcement agencies and judicial authorities.

Dkhissi stressed the significance of the partnership agreement between the DGSN and ANEF, signed in January, as a cornerstone for enhancing cooperation in combating forest offenses. This agreement aims to facilitate information exchange and joint action plans to address the evolving threats to Morocco's forest heritage.

In closing, Dkhissi reiterated the collective responsibility to protect Morocco's forests, emphasizing their vital role in biodiversity conservation and sustainable development. The study day concluded with a renewed commitment to unified action and strategic planning to address the multifaceted challenges facing forest ecosystems and wildlife conservation efforts.