by Abdullahi Lukman
Operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun Area 1 Command, Idiroko, have intercepted four live pangolins from suspected smugglers along the Yemoamota–Abule-Igboora and Ebute-Igboora axis.
The seizure was made around 3 a.m. on Thursday when officers, acting on intelligence, stopped a motorcycle along the Yemoamota–Igboora route.
Upon inspection, the operatives discovered the endangered animals confined in wire mesh cages and concealed inside a sack.
According to a statement issued on Friday by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Customs Chado Zakari, the method of concealment indicated the involvement of an organised smuggling syndicate.
He added that the suspects abandoned both the motorcycle and the animals, fleeing into the surrounding terrain under the cover of fog to evade arrest.
Following the interception, the command prioritised the safety of the animals and transferred them to a Wildlife Conservation Centre on Friday.
The handover was carried out by Assistant Comptroller Tajjudeen Bello on behalf of the Acting Customs Area Controller, Oladapo Afeni.
The command said the seizure reflects its commitment to the provisions of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Officers involved in the operation were commended for their professionalism and bravery.
Afeni reiterated that the command remains vigilant against trans-border crimes and will continue collaborating with relevant stakeholders to curb the illegal trade in endangered wildlife.
He warned smugglers to desist, stressing that the command is prepared to enforce the law.
