Ep 13. Illicit: The Dark Trade

Illicit: The Dark Trade is an episode from the National Geographic Documentaries that aired in the season 2008, episode 13. The show takes an in-depth look at the alarming rise of illicit trade all over the world, examining how these underground networks operate and outlining the grim consequences of their activities.

Viewers are taken on a journey through some of the most dangerous environments and scenarios, with footage of illegal arms deals, counterfeit operations, drug production, human trafficking, and wildlife poaching all on display. The episode also highlights how these trades are often intertwined and fuel one another, creating a tangled web of criminal activity that crosses borders and continents.

Over the course of the episode, viewers are introduced to various individuals involved in illicit trade, including arms dealers, smugglers, and poachers. They are shown how these individuals go about their daily business, often taking great risks to earn a profit and gain power. The documentary also explores how some governments turn a blind eye to these activities, sometimes even actively supporting them, in order to maintain power and control.

One of the primary focuses of the episode is on the issue of human trafficking, which is portrayed in a stark and sobering way. Viewers are introduced to women who have been trafficked across borders, forced into lives of prostitution or other forms of servitude. Interviews with experts in the field underscore the extent of this problem, with estimates that over 40 million people are currently being held in some form of slavery around the world.

Attention is also given to the trade in illicit drugs, with footage of clandestine drug labs and drug mules carrying their wares across borders. The show illustrates the devastating effect that drug addiction can have on individuals and society, painting a picture of an industry that is responsible for the destruction of countless lives.

Viewers are also taken on a journey through the world of wildlife poaching, with footage of animals in distress and poachers going about their grisly work. The episode highlights the tragic decline of many species due to poaching, including elephants and rhinos, which are hunted for their ivory and horns despite strict international laws against such practices.

Throughout the episode, viewers are invited to reflect on the reasons why these illicit trades exist, and what can be done to prevent them. Experts in the fields of international politics, law enforcement, and social justice are all interviewed, providing insight into the complex web of factors that contribute to the creation of these underground markets. The episode concludes with a sobering message about the urgent need for action to address this growing problem.

In summary, the National Geographic Documentaries season 2008 episode 13 titled Illicit: The Dark Trade is a gripping and insightful exploration of the world of underground trade and its impact on society. Through a combination of expert analysis, undercover footage, and interviews with those involved in the trade, the episode provides a compelling portrait of an often-hidden world of criminal activity and the lives it affects.