A long-time hunter and trader of endangered animals in Koh Kong province was arrested and charged with illegal animal trafficking on Friday after authorities seized eight types of animals from his home, Wildlife Alliance representatives said yesterday.

A living pangolin and parts of a hog deer – both endangered species – were among the 30kg of living and dead wild animals and animal parts found in the Thma Bang district home of Neng Chea, 45, said Prom Nol, a member of the Wildlife Alliance team that conducted the raid in collaboration with local Forestry Administration officials.

Up to 76.3kg of timber also was found in Chea’s home, he said.

Vuthy Ravong, the team’s leader, said Chea had been running his illegal business for years, but no action had been taken until now.

To contact the reporter on this story: Phak Seangly at [email protected]