Customs intensifies wildlife trafficking crackdown, intercepts 6 pangolins

By Steve Agbota

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone ‘A’, Lagos, has intercepted six endangered pangolins at Eruwa-Oni, Oyo State, as part of efforts to curb illegal wildlife trafficking and protect endangered species.

The interception was made at about 3:00 a.m. on Sunday, November 8, 2026, during an intelligence-led patrol. The animals were reportedly abandoned by their handlers, who fled on sighting the Customs patrol team.

The six pangolins were recovered alive and transported to the Unit’s headquarters in Ikeja, Lagos. However, two died on arrival, while the remaining four survived.

In line with the Service’s commitment to environmental protection and the preservation of endangered wildlife, the four surviving pangolins and the two carcasses were formally handed over to relevant wildlife officials for proper documentation and further action.

The handover was conducted by the Deputy Comptroller, Enforcement, DC A.O. Oguntuase, on behalf of the Comptroller, Federal Operations Unit, Zone ‘A’, Lagos.

The Unit said the interception underscored the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to combating the illegal exploitation and trafficking of protected wildlife species, while supporting biodiversity conservation and environmental sustainability.

It reiterated that the protection of endangered species was a shared responsibility and urged members of the public to provide credible and timely information to law enforcement agencies to assist in identifying and apprehending individuals involved in the illegal capture, possession, transportation and trafficking of protected wildlife.

The FOU Zone ‘A’ added that it remained committed to suppressing smuggling and other forms of illicit trade while strengthening collaboration with relevant agencies to safeguard Nigeria’s natural heritage.

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