Customs Intercept Four Live Pangolins in Ogun State, Clamp Down on Wildlife Trafficking

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A, Ikeja, has intercepted four live pangolins in Ogun State in a significant operation aimed at curbing illegal wildlife trafficking and protecting endangered species.

According to a statement by the NCS, the interception occurred during a targeted patrol at Alapa Creek in the Ajilete community, a riverine area of Ogun State known for smuggling routes and cross border movements. The operation was carried out by officers of the Federal Operations Unit Zone A as part of intensified surveillance and intelligence led enforcement activities.

Customs officials disclosed that the pangolins were found alive and concealed during the patrol, indicating an attempt to illegally transport the endangered animals through the creek. The suspects involved reportedly abandoned the animals upon sighting Customs operatives and fled the scene, taking advantage of the difficult terrain and waterways.

The four pangolins were immediately rescued and taken into custody by the Service. Officials confirmed that the animals were in stable condition at the time of interception and would be handed over to relevant wildlife and environmental protection authorities for proper care, rehabilitation and eventual release into their natural habitat.

Pangolins are among the most trafficked mammals in the world, driven largely by illegal demand for their scales and meat in international black markets. The animals are protected under Nigerian law and international conventions, including the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), to which Nigeria is a signatory.

The Comptroller of the Federal Operations Unit Zone A, Ikeja, described the interception as a major success in the Service’s ongoing fight against smuggling and environmental crimes. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Customs Service to enforcing laws that prohibit the illegal trade in wildlife and to collaborating with other security and environmental agencies to dismantle trafficking networks.

He warned that smugglers involved in wildlife trafficking would face the full weight of the law, stressing that Customs would not relent in monitoring creeks, border communities and other vulnerable routes used by criminal syndicates.

The interception has drawn commendation from conservation advocates, who noted that illegal wildlife trafficking poses serious threats to biodiversity, ecological balance and national security. They urged sustained enforcement, public awareness and stronger inter agency cooperation to protect endangered species and preserve Nigeria’s natural heritage.

The Nigeria Customs Service reiterated that the operation aligns with its broader mandate to safeguard the nation’s borders, protect the economy and uphold Nigeria’s international obligations. Members of the public were also encouraged to provide timely information to security agencies to support efforts against smuggling and other illegal activities.

As investigations continue, the Service assured Nigerians that it remains vigilant and resolute in its campaign against wildlife trafficking and other forms of trans border crime.