CMY3702
ASSIGNMENT 1 SEMESTER 2 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: AUGUST 2025
, CMY3702: Criminal Justice and Criminology
Assignment 1 – Semester 2 (2025)
Due Date: August 2025
Essay Question:
Provide a comprehensive discussion of the factors contributing to the illegal trade in
endangered species in South Africa. In addition, apply a case study of one such species
to serve as an example of this type of crime.
Illegal Trade in Endangered Species in South Africa: A Criminological Perspective
1. Introduction
South Africa is home to an extraordinary range of biodiversity, making it a target for
wildlife traffickers involved in the illegal trade of endangered species. This type of crime
is not only an environmental concern but also a serious organized criminal activity that
undermines conservation efforts, destabilizes ecosystems, and threatens national
security. This essay explores the main factors contributing to the illegal trade in
endangered species in South Africa and applies a case study on rhinoceros poaching to
illustrate the dynamics of this crime.
2. Factors Contributing to the Illegal Trade
2.1 High Demand for Wildlife Products
One of the primary drivers of the illegal wildlife trade is the international demand for
animal parts such as rhino horn, abalone, lion bones, pangolin scales, and elephant
ivory. These products are used in traditional Asian medicine, status symbols, luxury
goods, and exotic cuisine. The high market value incentivizes poachers and traffickers
to risk severe penalties.
ASSIGNMENT 1 SEMESTER 2 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: AUGUST 2025
, CMY3702: Criminal Justice and Criminology
Assignment 1 – Semester 2 (2025)
Due Date: August 2025
Essay Question:
Provide a comprehensive discussion of the factors contributing to the illegal trade in
endangered species in South Africa. In addition, apply a case study of one such species
to serve as an example of this type of crime.
Illegal Trade in Endangered Species in South Africa: A Criminological Perspective
1. Introduction
South Africa is home to an extraordinary range of biodiversity, making it a target for
wildlife traffickers involved in the illegal trade of endangered species. This type of crime
is not only an environmental concern but also a serious organized criminal activity that
undermines conservation efforts, destabilizes ecosystems, and threatens national
security. This essay explores the main factors contributing to the illegal trade in
endangered species in South Africa and applies a case study on rhinoceros poaching to
illustrate the dynamics of this crime.
2. Factors Contributing to the Illegal Trade
2.1 High Demand for Wildlife Products
One of the primary drivers of the illegal wildlife trade is the international demand for
animal parts such as rhino horn, abalone, lion bones, pangolin scales, and elephant
ivory. These products are used in traditional Asian medicine, status symbols, luxury
goods, and exotic cuisine. The high market value incentivizes poachers and traffickers
to risk severe penalties.
