During our last briefing on May 21, 2024, Comptroller Shuaibu made it clear that the command is committed to preventing illegal trading in endangered wildlife species and other smuggling operations within the Zone.
In the short span of two weeks since then, our team has intensified our efforts and recently seized a shipment of Pangolin scales and its derivatives in the Kebbi state area of the Zone.
Upon receiving actionable intelligence, the operatives executed a raid on a hideout referred to as the “slaughterhouse” in the suburbs of Zuru Town, Kebbi State on Friday, May 24, 2024, around 1600hrs.
During the operation, the team successfully located and removed sacks containing pangolin scales, which were later transported to the FOU Zone ‘B’ headquarters in Kaduna.
Following a thorough inspection and weighing process, it was determined that the pangolin scales had a total weight of 445.45kg.
It is crucial to reiterate that pangolins are an endangered species protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
Nigeria, being a signatory to the CITES Convention, strictly prohibits any form of trading involving this species. The Nigeria Customs Service remains committed to collaborating with CITES to prevent the extinction of these identified species.
(6) The value of this seizure at the International market is Three Billion, Nine Hundred and Fifty-Five Million, Five Hundred and Ninety-Six Thousand Naira (#3,955,596,000.00) only.
(7) One (1) Suspect was arrested in connection with this seizure while the main suspect is currently at large. However, the Unit in collaboration with other sister agencies will not rest on its oars until the main suspect is arrested and brought to book.
One (1) individual was apprehended in connection with this seizure, while the primary suspect remains at large. Nevertheless, the Unit, in conjunction with other related agencies, is committed to pursuing the main suspect until they are apprehended and brought to justice.
The violation is in breach of Section 55 (1) paragraphs C and I of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Act 2023.
The effectiveness of this operation can be attributed to the strong intelligence sharing between the NCS and the Wildlife Office, as well as the dedication of Unit operatives in utilizing the provided coordinates to make the arrest.
It is important to note that this operation was successfully carried out without any casualties.
From empirical data, we confidently assert that individuals engaged in the illicit trade of endangered species are using it as a cover to launder money for purchasing drugs, weapons, and other illegal goods.
The potential consequences of this slipping past our vigilant agents are staggering.
I urge the public to maintain their support and solidarity with the NCS in its battle against smuggling. It is imperative that we join forces to protect our nation and realize the vision of our forefathers.
I reiterate that the Unit will persist in upholding Federal Government regulations in accordance with global standards, despite any attempts to discredit the Service.
