North Korea’s Ambassador to U.N. Human Rights Council Recalled Amid Interpol Investigation on Illegal Wildlife Trade

“North Korea’s UN Ambassador Recalled Amidst Interpol Investigation for Smuggling Elephant Tusks and Rhino Horns”

BREAKING: North Korea’s ambassador to U.N. Human Rights Council Han Tae-song to be recalled in wake of Interpol investigation into his role as ringleader of illegal network smuggling African elephant tusks and rhino horns. Zimbabwe expelled him for the same in 1992. 🧵 pic.twitter.com/y7PmWCnJP5

— Hillel Neuer (@HillelNeuer) December 6, 2023

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North Korea’s ambassador to the United Nations (U.N.) Human Rights Council, Han Tae-song, is set to be recalled following an Interpol investigation into his alleged involvement in a smuggling network trafficking African elephant tusks and rhino horns. This is not the first time Han has faced expulsion, as Zimbabwe expelled him for similar activities in 1992.

The news broke when Hillel Neuer, a prominent human rights activist, tweeted on December 6, 2023, stating that Han Tae-song would be recalled in the wake of the Interpol investigation. Neuer also shared an image of the tweet from Han, which included a photo of the ambassador and a link to an article discussing his alleged illegal activities.

According to the tweet, Han Tae-song is suspected of being the ringleader of an illegal network involved in smuggling African elephant tusks and rhino horns. These activities have serious implications for wildlife conservation efforts, as African elephants and rhinos are both endangered species due to poaching.

The fact that Han Tae-song is a diplomat representing North Korea at the U.N. Human Rights Council adds an additional layer of concern to the situation. The council is responsible for promoting and protecting human rights around the world, and the alleged involvement of one of its ambassadors in illegal activities undermines its credibility.

This is not the first time Han has been embroiled in such controversy. In 1992, he was expelled from Zimbabwe for similar offenses. It is unclear how he managed to secure a diplomatic position once again, especially considering the seriousness of his past actions.

The recall of Han Tae-song is a significant development in the fight against wildlife trafficking. It sends a strong message that illegal activities will not be tolerated, even at the highest levels of diplomacy. It also highlights the need for increased international cooperation to combat this global issue.

The U.N. and its member states must take this opportunity to reassess their vetting processes for diplomatic appointments. The role of ambassadors is crucial in representing their countries on the international stage, and those appointed should have impeccable records and adhere to the highest ethical standards.

As the investigation into Han Tae-song’s alleged role as a ringleader progresses, it is important for the international community to remain vigilant in the fight against wildlife trafficking. The illegal trade of elephant tusks and rhino horns contributes to the decline of these magnificent creatures and threatens the delicate balance of ecosystems.

The recall of Han Tae-song serves as a reminder that no one is above the law, regardless of their diplomatic status. It is a step towards justice for the elephants and rhinos that have been killed for their valuable body parts, and a step towards a world where wildlife can thrive without the threat of illegal trafficking..

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@HillelNeuer said BREAKING: North Korea's ambassador to U.N. Human Rights Council Han Tae-song to be recalled in wake of Interpol investigation into his role as ringleader of illegal network smuggling African elephant tusks and rhino horns. Zimbabwe expelled him for the same in 1992. 🧵

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