Customs arrest Pangolin smugglers in major wildlife crime bust

By Samuel Ogunsona

The Nigeria Customs Service, [NCS] has arrested smugglers of live Pangolins in a remarkable onslaught on wildlife crime.

The Zone B sector intercepted a live pangolin smuggling cartel along the Kano–Takai–Jigawa road in North Central Nigeria.

Pangolins are traded for keratin scales, used in indigenous medicine for the treatment of skin ailments, rheumatism and lactation problems. The skin is also used for exotic leather.

The pangolins are worth millions of dollars in the international market. The scales are worth 3,000 dollars per kilograme.

The latest seizure few days ago is the second such operation in just two weeks, highlighting the unit’s commitment to protecting endangered species.

“The frequency of these interceptions — twice within a fortnight — demonstrates our heightened surveillance,” said Sule, the unit’s spokesperson in reports monitored by Irohinoodua.

“This seizure sends a clear message that Zone ‘B’ will not be a transit point or safe haven for wildlife traffickers.”

The operation was intelligence-driven, with officers flagging down a suspicious vehicle along the axis.

The Nigeria Customs Service has reiterated its commitment to enforcing environmental laws and international agreements, warning smugglers to desist from using the region as a corridor for illicit wildlife trade.

“Pangolins are widely regarded as the most trafficked mammals globally due to demand for their scales and meat,” the statement noted.

The Service will continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to protect biodiversity and combat wildlife crimes.

This latest operation demonstrates the unit’ efforts to tackle wildlife trafficking in the region.