Kathmandu, Nepal, 5^th December 2025: WWF Nepal and the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) of Nepal Police have signed their third Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking a renewed and strengthened commitment to combat wildlife crime and protect Nepal’s natural heritage. This milestone builds upon more than a decade of successful collaboration between the two institutions.

The partnership between WWF Nepal and CIB began on 18 June 2014, when the first MoU formalized a shared mission to dismantle poaching networks and curb illegal wildlife trade across Nepal. Since then, this collaboration has evolved into a model of coordinated action, enhancing intelligence-sharing, improving enforcement mechanisms, and elevating national and international recognition of Nepal’s leadership in wildlife conservation.

“Our partnership with CIB Nepal Police demonstrates what is possible when conservation and law enforcement work hand in hand. Over the past decade, we have witnessed remarkable achievements fueled by shared purpose and unwavering dedication”, said Dr. Ghana Shyam Gurung, Country Representative of WWF Nepal. “This renewed MoU reinforces our joint commitment to ending illegal wildlife trade and safeguarding Nepal’s natural heritage for future generations”, he remarked.

Over the years, WWF Nepal has continued to support CIB technically and financially through capacity building, communication strengthening, and intelligence development. A notable achievement under this partnership is the joint initiative implemented in Bagmati Province under the IWT DEFRA project. This program has significantly improved surveillance, bolstered enforcement responses, and fortified institutional capabilities to counter illegal wildlife trafficking.

“This third MoU renewal marks another important chapter in our long-standing partnership with WWF Nepal. Together, we have made significant strides in curbing wildlife crime, and this renewed collaboration strengthens our resolve to protect Nepal’s priceless biodiversity. Fighting wildlife crime is the core responsibility of the CIB and we are grateful for the continued technical and strategic assistance provided by WWF Nepal. No single agency can combat wildlife crime alone, which is why strong coordination and shared commitment are essential. We remain dedicated to advancing our enforcement efforts with professionalism, innovation, and determination.”, said Dr. Manoj Kumar KC, the Additional Inspector General of Police (AIGP) of CIB.

The CIB of Nepal Police has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, professionalism, and courage. Their relentless efforts have earned prestigious honors, including the WWF Abraham Conservation Award, the Clark R. Bavin Wildlife Law Enforcement Award, and the Asia Environmental Enforcement Award, reflecting international recognition of Nepal’s strong stance against wildlife crime.

The renewing of this MoU for the third time reaffirms both organizations’ dedication to advancing conservation-driven law enforcement and sustaining a unified response to emerging threats.