The Poachers Trail: Part 1

The Poachers Trail: Part 1

Author: The New Arab December 16, 2025 Duration: 29:33

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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From a London newsroom, The New Arab Voice reaches across continents, offering a distinct perspective on events and ideas shaping communities from the Middle East and North Africa to Asia and global diasporas. This isn't just a headlines recap. Each episode weaves together rigorous news analysis, cultural insight, and historical context, treating complex political shifts and societal transformations with the depth they deserve. You'll hear from people living the stories-artists, analysts, and everyday voices-providing a nuanced understanding that moves beyond simplistic narratives. The podcast reflects the rich tapestry of the regions it covers, finding the connections between past and present, policy and personal experience. For listeners seeking to move past soundbites and explore the interplay of power, identity, and heritage, The New Arab Voice provides essential listening. It’s where current affairs meet deep storytelling, all grounded in the extensive journalistic tradition of The New Arab. Tune in for conversations that challenge assumptions and illuminate the underreported, fostering a more informed and engaged perspective on a dynamic part of the world.
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