FOU Zone B Customs Intercepts Live Pangolins in Crackdown on Wildlife Trafficking

BY FUNMI ALUKO

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘B’, has intercepted two live pangolins being smuggled along the Kano–Jigawa axis, in a major operation against illegal wildlife trade.

The arrest took place at about 10:00 a.m. during a routine stop-and-search exercise. Operatives flagged down a suspicious vehicle and discovered the endangered mammals concealed inside. Each pangolin weighed approximately 15 kilograms.

The seizure according to official dissemination was carried out in line with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which prohibits trade that threatens the survival of vulnerable species. The animals were secured in protective cages and transported to the Unit’s headquarters in Kaduna for further examination.

Comptroller Aminu Sule, who heads FOU Zone ‘B’, ordered a full-scale investigation to trace the source and intended destination of the pangolins. He emphasized the seriousness of the operation, stating: “This seizure sends a clear message that Zone ‘B’ will not be a transit point for wildlife traffickers.”

Pangolins are among the most trafficked mammals globally, prized for their scales and meat despite strict international bans. The interception highlights the Customs Service’s vigilance in enforcing environmental laws and international treaties aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s biodiversity.

The NCS reaffirmed its commitment to protecting endangered species and warned that it will continue to intensify operations against smugglers across the region.