In a bold move to show commitment to the Convention on International Trade of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), the Ogun I Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted four live pangolins along the Yemoamota–Igboora axis.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer, Zakari Chado, in a statement issued to the press noted that officers acted on credible intelligence at about 3:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 12, 2026.
“A patrol team intercepted a motorcycle along the Yemoamota–Abule Igboora and Ebute Igboora axis. Upon inspection, officers discovered four pangolins confined in wire mesh cages and concealed within a sack. The sophisticated packaging suggests the involvement of an organised smuggling syndicate,” the statement read.
The suspects abandoned the motorcycle and fled into the surrounding terrain under cover of darkness.
Prioritising the welfare of the endangered animals, the pangolins were handed over to the Wildlife Conservation Centre on February 13, 2026. The handover was conducted by Assistant Comptroller Tajjudeen Bello (Ag. DC Admin) on behalf of Acting Customs Area Controller Oladapo Afeni.
Afeni commended the officers for their courage and professionalism, reaffirming the Service’s determination to combat trans-border crimes and illegal wildlife trafficking.
“We remain steadfast in our vigilance against trans-border crime and committed to collaborating with partners to eliminate the illegal trade in endangered species,” Afeni stated.
The Acting Controller issued a stern warning to traffickers, urging them to desist. He emphasised that the Command remains fully equipped and battle-ready to track down and apprehend anyone undermining the law.
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