Inside the secret Laos shops selling pangolin scales, bear bile and tiger bones to tourists

The Guardian has uncovered a disturbing wildlife trade in Laos where crime networks disguise illegal sales of pangolin scales, bear bile, and tiger bones in front of souvenir shops. This clandestine operation targets Chinese tourists, exploiting a growing influx of visitors. The covert footage reveals that these shops operate by appointment rather than open to the public, highlighting the organized crime behind the scenes. This illegal trade not only threatens endangered species but also raises serious ethical and conservation concerns, making it crucial to address this hidden menace.