Anti-Smuggling Operation in Kebbi State Yields Major Seizure of Pangolin Scales

Anti-Smuggling Operation in Kebbi State Yields Major Seizure of Pangolin Scales

Kaduna, Nigeria, June 5, 2024** – The Federal Operations Unit Zone 'B' of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has successfully intercepted a significant consignment of pangolin scales and its derivatives in Kebbi State. This was announced by Comptroller Ahmadu Bello Shuaibu during a media briefing today, detailing the unit’s recent anti-smuggling activities.

Following the unit’s commitment to combat illegal trading in endangered wildlife species, as declared on May 21, 2024, operatives have intensified efforts against such activities. Acting on actionable intelligence, a team raided a hideout in the suburbs of Zuru Town, Kebbi State, on May 24, 2024. The operation, carried out at around 1600hrs, led to the discovery and evacuation of sacks of pangolin scales weighing a total of 445.45 kg. 

Pangolins, listed as endangered by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), are protected from all forms of trade. Nigeria, being a signatory to CITES, enforces strict regulations against trading in this species. The intercepted scales are valued at approximately ₦3,955,596,000 in the international market.

One suspect has been arrested in connection with the seizure, while the primary suspect remains at large. Comptroller Shuaibu assured that the unit, in collaboration with other agencies, will continue efforts to apprehend the main suspect.

The operation is a testament to the effective intelligence sharing between the NCS and the Wildlife Office. The NCS emphasizes that illegal trafficking of endangered species is often a front for laundering money used in other illicit activities such as drug and arms trafficking.

The NCS urges the public to support its efforts in combating smuggling to safeguard Nigeria’s future and uphold international standards. Despite challenges, the unit remains committed to enforcing federal policies and protecting endangered species from extinction.

**For more information, contact:**

Comptroller Ahmadu Bello Shuaibu  

Federal Operations Unit Zone B, Kaduna  

June 5, 2024

Federal Operations Unit Zone B, NCS