The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit Zone A, has intercepted five live pangolins during an intelligence-led anti-smuggling operation in Ogun State, intensifying efforts to combat illegal wildlife trafficking.
The operation took place at about 1:18 a.m. on Friday, October 23, along the Igbo-Ora/Imeko-Afon axis of the state, following intelligence about the suspected movement of endangered wildlife.
According to the unit’s Public Relations Officer, Hussaini Abdullahi, Customs officers discovered the animals confined in wire-mesh cages and concealed in a manner intended to evade detection. The suspected traffickers reportedly abandoned the pangolins and fled when they sighted the patrol team.
The animals were subsequently handed over to the Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative Centre for safekeeping, rehabilitation and eventual release into a protected habitat.
The handover was conducted by the Deputy Comptroller in charge of Enforcement, Oluwaseun Oguntuase, on behalf of the Acting Controller of the unit, Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Afeni.
Oguntuase said repeated wildlife interceptions within a short period highlighted the need for investigations to identify and dismantle the networks responsible for trafficking protected species.
Pangolins are threatened by illegal hunting and trafficking. Their protection is important for biodiversity conservation, while effective enforcement and cooperation between security agencies and wildlife organisations can help reduce the illegal trade.
The Customs Service reaffirmed its commitment to tackling wildlife trafficking and enforcing relevant national laws and international conservation obligations.
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