Customs Intercepts Pangolin Scales, Elephant Tusks, More Valued at N680M

The Nigeria Customs Service, Eastern Marine Command, made a huge breakthrough in the fight against the illegal wildlife trade when they seized a substantial amount of pangolin scales, elephant tusks, and old shoes worth a staggering N680 million.

This operation, which was carried out in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on October 24, 2023, represents a significant advancement in the battle against wildlife trafficking.

Six enormous sacks of used shoes and 365.4 kilograms of pangolin scales and elephant tusks were seized as a consequence of the officers of the command’s diligent work. The total duty paid value (DPV) of these goods was N680,290,400.00. The operation happened close to the Ibaka-Bakasi beach along the coastal waterways from south to south.

During the display of the confiscated goods, Customs Area Controller Comptroller Mike Ugbagu underlined the critical necessity for international collaboration in the fight against wildlife trafficking. He emphasized the threats it presents to threatened species as well as how it helps finance illegal financial operations and organized crime. The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) was also reaffirmed by him as something that Nigeria will always adhere to.

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Comptroller Ugbagu conveyed his appreciation for the extra resources that the management of the Nigeria Customs Service had supplied. Effective beach combing was made possible by the command’s increased ability to monitor and secure the south-south coastal waterways thanks to the deployment of gunboats and logistic boats.

Praiseing the commitment and expertise of his officers throughout the operation, he promised to step up efforts to stop wildlife trafficking and protect Nigeria’s natural resources.

Elephant tusks and pangolin scales were seized, sending a strong warning to wildlife traffickers in the area that their unlawful actions will not be accepted and that they will suffer dire repercussions if caught.

Comptroller Ugbagu also stressed the importance of efficient cooperation between law enforcement agencies, such the Nigerian Navy, and other groups that use the Ibaka-Bakasi beach’s waterways. This cooperative endeavor demonstrates Nigeria’s will to fight wildlife trafficking and protect its rich biodiversity as a responsible member of the global community.