Justice For Endangered Species: Ogun 1 Command Foils Pangolin Smuggling Attempt, Seizing 4 live Pangolins, Disrupting Organized Crime Syndicate. ‘Battle-Ready’ to Protect Wildlife.
Justice For Endangered Species: Ogun 1 Command Foils Pangolin Smuggling Attempt, Seizing 4 live Pangolins, Disrupting Organized Crime Syndicate. ‘Battle-Ready’ to Protect Wildlife.
By Success Okezie
“The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Command, has made a significant breakthrough in the fight against wildlife trafficking, intercepting four live pangolins in a daring patrol operation along the Yewamota-Igbooro axis of Ogun State.
The successful operation, carried out on February 12, 2026, at around 3:00 AM, was made possible by credible intelligence received by the Command.
A patrol team flagged down a motorcycle in the area, uncovering the pangolins hidden in wire mesh cages within a sack.
The sophisticated concealment method suggests the involvement of an organized wildlife trafficking syndicate.The suspects abandoned the motorcycle and fled into the surrounding terrain, evading capture.
According to an e-signed statement by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Chado Zakari, the pangolins have been transferred to the Wildlife Conservation Centre for care.
The NCS commends the team’s efforts and reaffirms its commitment to disrupting wildlife trafficking networks and protecting endangered species.”
Upon sighting Customs officers, the suspected smugglers abandoned the motorcycle and the endangered animals and fled into the surrounding terrain, evading arrest.
In line with international wildlife protection protocols and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), the rescued pangolins were officially handed over to the Wildlife Conservation Centre on February 13, 2026, to ensure their safety and rehabilitation.
The handover was conducted by Assistant Comptroller Tajjudeen Bello (Ag. DC Admin) on behalf of the Acting Customs Area Controller, Oladapo Afeni.
Commending the patrol team, Afeni praised their professionalism and courage, noting that the Command remains resolute in tackling illegal wildlife trade and other cross-border crimes.
“We remain steadfast in our vigilance against trans-border crime and committed to collaborating with our partners to eliminate the illegal trade of endangered species,” Afeni stated.
He also issued a stern warning to smugglers and traffickers, urging them to desist from illegal activities, stressing that the Command is “battle-ready” and fully equipped to track down offenders.
The seizure highlights the Nigeria Customs Service’s growing role in wildlife conservation, border security, and enforcement of international environmental treaties.
About The Author
