For 15 months, The New Arab, in cooperation with Bridges Investigations, explored the shadowy world of Maltese bird hunters.

We uncovered how Maltese hunters, frustrated by local laws, were travelling to Egypt to slaughter migratory birds in vast numbers. Their hunting activities have been described as an environmental disaster, and a threat to the thousands of migratory birds who rely on Egyptian wetlands.

We went undercover in Fayoum. Followed the smuggling routes from Egypt’s lakes to Maltese homes. And saw how Europe’s conservation efforts collapse when its citizens pull the trigger abroad.

This is more than a story of poaching. It’s about wasted conservation money, destroyed ecosystems, and a system that rewards hunters while silencing conservationists.

The Poachers Trail was a investigation by The New Arab and Bridges Investigations (@BRIDGES4I), with the support of the Journalism Fund Europe (@journalismfund).

It was written and hosted by Mahmoud Elsobky (@ElsobkyMahmoud_), with additional help from Wael El-Sayegh.

Andrea Glioti is The New Arab’s Investigation editor.

This podcast was produced by Hugo Goodridge.

To get in touch with the producers, follow then tweet us at @TNAPodcasts or email podcast@newarab.com

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