OGUN I COMMAND OF NIGERIA CUSTOMS SERVICE INTERCEPT FOUR LIVE PANGOLINS IN A HIGH-STAKES PATROL OPERATIONS
In a major victory for wildlife conservation and border security, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Command, has intercepted four live pangolins along the Yemoamota-Igboora axis. The seizure underscores the Service’s unwavering commitment to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
At about 0300 hours, on Thursday, February 12, 2026, a patrol team acting on credible intelligence intercepted a motorcycle in the , Yemoamota-Abule-Igboora, and Ebute Igboora axis of the command. Upon inspection, officers discovered four pangolins confined in wire mesh cages and concealed within a sack. The sophisticated nature of the packaging suggests the involvement of an organized smuggling syndicate.
To evade arrest, the suspects abandoned their motorcycle and the endangered species, vanishing into the thick terrain as the evening fog rolled in.
Prioritizing the animals’ welfare after the seizure, the Command officially transferred the pangolins to the Wildlife Conservation Centre on February 13, 2026.
The handover was conducted by Assistant Comptroller Tajjudeen Bello (Ag. DC Admin) on behalf of the Ag. Customs Area Controller, Oladapo Afeni.
Our officers acted with remarkable courage and professionalism throughout the covert operations. Afeni stated. “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 issued a stern warning to smugglers and traffickers of endangered wildlife, urging them to desist and emphasized that the Command remains ‘battle-ready’ and fully equipped to track down and apprehend anyone undermining the law
