Customs seize N3.1bn pangolin scales, elephant tusks in Lagos

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), on Wednesday, said its men seized N3.1bn worth of Pangolin scales and Elephant tusks from a Siena bus with registration number KRD 541 HH in the Lekki area of Lagos.

Addressing newsmen in Lagos, the Comptroller General of Customs, Hameed Ali, who was represented by the outgoing National Public Relations Officer of the Service, Joseph Attah, stated that the seizure was carried out on the 2nd of February, 2022 in the Lekki area by men of the CGC Strike Force.

According to the Customs CG, “On the 2nd of February, 2022, upon credible intelligence, the CGC’s Strike Force stormed Lekki area of Lagos and intercepted one Toyota Sienna bus with registration number KRD 541 HH with chassis: STDZA23C955338572 suspected to be loaded with un-Customs goods.

“Immediately, the vehicle with its content, including 4 occupants (all Nigerians) were taken to the station and detained.

“Upon 100 joint physical examination, the following items were found: fifteen sacks of Pangolin scales and four sacks of elephant tusks. The total quantity of Elephant tusks intercepted is 145kg while the total quantity of Pangolin scales is 839.4kg with a total value of N3, 155,667,500.00.

“The operation was conducted in collaboration with the Wildlife Justice Commission, targeting the illegal trade of wildlife from Africa to Asia.

“What you are seeing today is the fourth major seizure of Pangolin scales, ivory and other assorted wildlife parts in Nigeria within the last 13 months.

“We wish to specifically commend the Wildlife Justice Commission for their continued commitment to this cause through the provision of credible and actionable intelligence. Nigeria Customs appreciates this working synergy and look forward to more.”

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Customs seize N3.1bn pangolin scales, elephant tusks in Lagos