Comptroller Ahmadu Bello Shuaibu
The Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone B of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has successfully intercepted a significant consignment of pangolin scales within the Kebbi State axis, valued at approximately N3.96 billion on the international market. This was announced today by Comptroller Ahmadu Bello Shuaibu during a media briefing on the unit’s recent anti-smuggling activities.
Comptroller Shuaibu highlighted that the seizure was a result of enhanced operations against the illegal trade of endangered wildlife species, following their commitment stated in a previous briefing on May 21, 2024. Acting on precise intelligence, NCS operatives raided a known hideout, referred to as a slaughterhouse, in the outskirts of Zuru Town, Kebbi State, on May 24, 2024. The raid led to the discovery and confiscation of pangolin scales weighing 445.45kg.
Pangolins are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), to which Nigeria is a signatory. The NCS reiterates its commitment to collaborating with CITES to prevent the extinction of this endangered species. All forms of trading in pangolins and their derivatives are illegal in Nigeria.
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During the operation, one suspect was apprehended, while the primary suspect remains at large. Comptroller Shuaibu assured that the NCS, in collaboration with other agencies, will not relent until the main suspect is captured and prosecuted. The offence contravenes Section 55 (1) paragraphs C and I of the NCS Act 2023.
The success of this operation, achieved without any casualties, underscores the effectiveness of robust intelligence sharing between the NCS and wildlife authorities. Comptroller Shuaibu emphasized that illegal trafficking of endangered species often serves as a front for money laundering and the procurement of drugs, arms, and other illicit goods. Preventing such activities is crucial to national security and environmental conservation.
In closing, Comptroller Shuaibu called on the public to continue supporting the NCS in its fight against smuggling, urging collective effort to uphold the country’s laws and policies in line with international best practices.
