Comptroller Ahmadu Shuaibu, Customs Area Controller of Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone B Intercepts N3.9 billion worth of Pangolin Scales in Kebbi State
The Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘B’ of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted a substantial consignment of pangolin scales and derivatives, weighing 445.45 kg and valued at N3.9 billion.
The interception occurred in Zuru Town, Kebbi State, following a tip-off that led operatives to storm a hideout on May 24, 2024. This significant seizure comes just two weeks after the unit confiscated donkey bones and meat worth over three billion naira.
During a media briefing in Kaduna, Comptroller Ahmadu Bello Shuaibu of FOU Zone ‘B’ revealed that one suspect has been arrested in connection with the seizure, while the main suspect remains at large. The actions contravene Section 55 (1) paragraphs C and I of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Act 2023.
“Let me once again explain that the pangolin specie is one of the endangered species protected by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), and Nigeria is a signatory to the convention.
“It is instructive that Nigeria is signatory to the CITES Convention and all forms of trading in this species are clearly illegal. The Nigeria Customs Service will continue to partner CITES to forestall the identified species from going into extinction.
“The unit in collaboration with other sister agencies will not rest on its oars until the main suspect is arrested and brought to book,” he said.
He further highlighted the broader implications of such illegal trade, noting its connections to money laundering, drug trafficking, and arms smuggling.
“From empirical evidence, we make bold to say that those involved in the illegal trafficking of endangered species are hiding under it to launder money used in procuring drugs, arms and other illegal merchandise. You can imagine the havoc this may have caused if it had escaped the eagle eyes of our operatives, ” he added.
The successful operation was attributed to effective intelligence sharing between the NCS and the Wildlife Office, as well as the dedication of the operatives who acted on the provided coordinates without any casualties.
Comptroller Shuaibu emphasized the importance of public cooperation in the fight against smuggling, urging collective responsibility to support the NCS in safeguarding the nation.
He reiterated the unit’s commitment to enforcing federal policies in accordance with international best practices, despite any negative campaigns against the Service.
