Three live pangolins were apprehended by the Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit, Zone ‘A’, Ikeja, during an anti-smuggling operation in the zone.
This was revealed in a statement made on Monday by Hussaini Abdullahi, the Unit’s Public Relations Officer.
As soon as the Customs patrol team was spotted, the individuals suspected of trafficking the animals reportedly jumped ship and ran into the nearby marsh, abandoning the shipment.
According to Abdullahi, the endangered creatures were rescued on Monday morning when police, based on valid information, seized a bag holding them, which were housed in a wire mesh cage.
In his role as acting comptroller of FOU Zone ‘A,’ Oladapo Afeni hailed the seizure as a significant victory in the fight against transnational crimes, including wildlife trafficking and smuggling.
Deputy Comptroller Oluwaseun Oguntuase represented Afeni, and Afeni commended the officers for being vigilant and responding quickly.
“Protect Nigeria’s biodiversity and break criminal networks using the country’s borders and waterways,” he added, adding that the operation demonstrates the unit’s resolve.
Aggressive patrols, intelligence-led operations, and cooperation with other agencies will be maintained across FOU Zone ‘A’, according to Afeni’s warning to smugglers and their associates.
In his statement, he reaffirmed the dedication of Adewale Adeniyi, Nigeria’s Comptroller-General of Customs, and the Service to protecting endangered species, preventing the illegal trade of wildlife, and securing the country’s borders.