SEO Riders:
– Nigeria Customs intercepts nearly half a ton of pangolin scales in intelligence-led Kano operation.
– One suspect arrested; officials vow to intensify surveillance using advanced tools.
– The move aligns with the Customs Service Act 2023 to combat illegal wildlife trafficking.
In a coordinated intelligence-led operation on July 16, the Kano/Jigawa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service seized 420 kg of pangolin scales in a Kano suburb, subsequently arresting one suspect. Comptroller Abubakar Dalhatu stated that the seizure dealt “a significant disruption to transnational criminal networks” and was conducted by a joint team from the Special Wildlife Office, Intelligence Unit, and Customs Police. The operation targets illegal wildlife trade, safeguarding endangered species like pangolins and reinforcing Nigeria’s environmental protection objectives under Section 55 of the Customs Service Act 2023.
Dalhatu emphasized that the interception “sends a strong message that wildlife crimes will not be tolerated,” detailing plans to enhance surveillance capabilities and deploy advanced technology in future enforcement actions. He also praised support from the Comptroller-General of Customs and international partners such as the Regional Intelligence Liaison Office and Focus Conservation. The suspect is expected to be prosecuted under national and international wildlife trafficking laws, reflecting Nigeria’s increasing commitment to combating transnational environmental crime.
