People from Tibet Autonomous Region discovered 53cases of wildlife poaching and smuggling during a recent anti-poaching and anti-smuggling blitz.
Between November 21and December 5,acting on government orders,the region launched spot checks on hotels,restaurants,bus and railway stations,the airport and markets.
The move resulted in the seizing of 470animal skins,25kg of animal products,12live animals,and one self-made rifle with a total value of 100,000yuan.
Tibet,in southwest China and known as the Roof of the World,has become a sanctuary for wild animals thanks to protection efforts by the central and local governments.
In 1994,China set up the Qomolangma Nature Reserve which covers an area of 33,800square kilometers.There are over 100species of wild animals inhabiting the reserve,one of 17nature reserves in Tibet.
(eastday.com December 12, 2001)
