Customs: Ogun I Command Intercepts Four Live Pangolins ‎

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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.

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‎This was revealed in a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SC Chado Zakari, it noted that officers acting on credible intelligence at about 3:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 12, 2026.

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The statement stated, “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 suspects abandoned the motorcycle and fled into the surrounding terrain under cover of darkness".

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‎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 on behalf of the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Afeni by Assistant Comptroller Tajudeen Bello (Acting Deputy Comptroller in charge of Administration).

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‎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.

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‎The Acting Controller issued a stern warning to traffickers, urging them to desist, emphasising that the Command remains fully equipped and battle-ready to track down and apprehend anyone undermining the law.

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