A study has revealed that organized donkey theft syndicates are operating highly coordinated, market-driven supply chains that mirror legitimate businesses, with criminals sourcing orders before stealing and slaughtering animals to meet demand. The report, titled Theft and Illegal Trade in Donkey Skins and Related Products in Kenya, is the first comprehensive national study examining the scale, drivers and impacts of donkey theft and the illicit trade in donkey skins. In some cases, researchers received reports that rogue security officers provide protection to illegal slaughter operations, enabling the networks to operate with minimal interference. Beyond the criminal operations, the study warns that donkey theft has devastating socio-economic consequences. The study identified several major risks associated with the illegal trade, including environmental pollution caused by the dumping of rotting carcasses into rivers and forests.