The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Command, has made a significant breakthrough in the fight against wildlife trafficking, intercepting four live pangolins in a high-stakes patrol operation along the Yemoamota-Igboora axis. The seizure is a testament to the Service's commitment to upholding the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
According to the statement made available to Journalists by the Ogun Area 1 Command's Spokesman, DSC Zakaria chado,The patrol team, acting on credible intelligence, intercepted a motorcycle in the Yemoamota-Abule-Igboora area, discovering the pangolins concealed in wire mesh cages within a sack. The suspects abandoned the motorcycle and fled the scene, leaving behind the endangered species.
The sophisticated packaging of the pangolins suggests the involvement of an organized smuggling syndicate. The Customs Service is working to unravel the network behind the smuggling operation.
The welfare of the pangolins is a top priority, and they have been transferred to the Wildlife Conservation Centre. The handover was conducted by Assistant Comptroller Tajjudeen Bello on behalf of the Ag. Customs Area Controller, Oladapo Afeni.
The Ag. Customs Area Controller, Oladapo Afeni, praised the officers involved in the operation, stating that they acted with remarkable courage and professionalism. He emphasized the Command's commitment to combating trans-border crime and collaborating with partners to eliminate the illegal trade of endangered species.
Afeni issued a stern warning to smugglers and traffickers of endangered wildlife, urging them to desist from their activities. He emphasized that the Command remains "battle-ready" and equipped to track down and apprehend anyone undermining the law.
The Nigeria Customs Service is working closely with other agencies to disrupt the smuggling network and bring perpetrators to justice. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities.
The pangolins are currently receiving care at the Wildlife Conservation Centre, and efforts are being made to rehabilitate and release them back into their natural habitat.
The Ogun I Command's interception of the pangolins is a significant victory in the fight against wildlife trafficking, and it sends a strong message to those involved in the illegal trade.
The Nigeria Customs Service remains committed to protecting Nigeria's wildlife and natural resources, and it will continue to work tirelessly to combat wildlife trafficking and other forms of trans-border crime.
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