Nigeria Customs Intercepts Four Live Pangolins in Ogun, Boosting Anti-Wildlife Trafficking Efforts
Nigeria Customs Intercepts Four Live Pangolins in Ogun, Boosting Anti-Wildlife Trafficking Efforts
Nigeria Customs Intercepts Four Live Pangolins in Ogun, Boosting Anti-Wildlife Trafficking Efforts
Operatives of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A of the Nigeria Customs Service have intercepted four live pangolins in Ajilete creeks, Ogun State, in a significant breakthrough in the fight against wildlife trafficking.
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The seizure, which occurred on Thursday, January 15, 2026, followed credible intelligence that led patrol officers to stop a wooden boat conveying the endangered animals in wire mesh cages along Alapa Creek, Ajilete.
A press release signed on January 19, 2026, by the Unit’s Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Customs Hussaini Abdullahi, disclosed that the suspected smugglers fled into the creeks upon sighting Customs officers, abandoning both the boat and the animals.
The rescued pangolins were subsequently handed over to the Wildlife Conservation Centre for safekeeping. The handover was carried out by the Deputy Comptroller of Customs in charge of Enforcement, Oluwaseun Oguntuase, on behalf of the Comptroller, FOU Zone A, Gambo Aliyu.
Commending the officers involved, Comptroller Aliyu described the operation as a reflection of the professionalism, courage, and dedication of Customs personnel, particularly during night patrols.
“This interception reflects the professionalism, courage and commitment of our officers. I urge all personnel to remain vigilant and resolute in tackling trans-border crimes, as the Unit will continue to enforce wildlife protection laws and collaborate with relevant stakeholders to eradicate the illegal trade in endangered species,” he said.
The Nigeria Customs Service reaffirmed its commitment to protecting endangered wildlife and strengthening partnerships to combat environmental crimes across the country.
Nigeria Customs Intercepts Four Live Pangolins in Ogun, Boosting Anti-Wildlife Trafficking Efforts
