D/COMPT IBRAHIM GETS CRACKING; INTERCEPTS LIVE PANGOLINS IN A HIGH STAKES OPERATION IN IDIROKO
In a major victory for wildlife conservation and border security, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Command, has intercepted three live pangolins concealed in sacks at the Abeokuta waterside. The seizure underscores the Service’s unwavering commitment to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
The command patrol team, acting on credible intelligence, intercepted the endangered animals abandoned by suspected smugglers who fled upon sighting Customs operatives. The pangolins were found tightly bound in sacks, a cruel method of concealment used by wildlife traffickers to evade detection.
Upon inspection, officers discovered 3 pangolins confined in wire mesh cages and concealed within a sack. The sophisticated packaging suggests the involvement of an organised smuggling syndicate. To evade arrest, the suspects abandoned the endangered species and fled.
In line with inter-agency collaboration and the mandate to ensure the proper care of rescued wildlife, the Ag Customs Area Controller, Ogun I Command, *Deputy Compt. Abdulhamid Ibrahim,* has officially handed over the seized Pangolins to Green Finger Wildlife Conservation for rehabilitation and eventual release into a protected habitat.
During the handing-over ceremony, the Ag Customs Area Controller, Ogun I Command, *Deputy Comptroller Ibrahim* disclosed that Pangolins are listed as endangered species under Nigerian law and are protected by the Endangered Species (Control of International Trade and Traffic) Act. Trafficking pangolins and their derivatives attracts severe penalties. Under the recently passed Endangered Species Conservation and Protection Bill, offenders risk fines of up to ₦12 million and prison terms of up to 10 years.
The Nigeria Customs Service, in collaboration with Green Finger Wildlife and other stakeholders, remains resolute in enforcing these laws to protect the nation’s biodiversity.
Our officers acted with remarkable courage and professionalism throughout the covert operations. Ibrahim stated. “We remain steadfast in our vigilance against trans-border crime and committed to collaborating with our partners to eliminate the illegal trade of endangered species.
Receiving the animals, the Admin Manager/Supervisor, Green Fingers Wildlife. Mr Isaac Itue Ime commended the Ogun I Command for its vigilance and swift action. He emphasised the critical role of Customs in the fight against illegal wildlife trade and assured that green fingers Wildlife would provide the necessary care for the survived pangolin.
Deputy Compt. Ibrahim* issued a stern warning to smugglers and traffickers of endangered wildlife, urging them to desist and emphasized that the Command remains ‘battle-ready’ and fully equipped to track down and apprehend anyone undermining the law