The Nigeria Customs Service apprehended three individuals involved in illegal wildlife trade. Through a joint enforcement operation led by the Customs Special Wildlife Office and the Customs Police Unit, in collaboration with the Wildlife Justice Commission, the arrests took place on January 25, 2024, February 4, 2024, and February 6, 2024. The three Nigerians were caught facilitating the unlawful export of wildlife to Asia, specifically during the sale of five pieces of Elephant Tusk.
The illegal wildlife traders were in possession of five Elephant Tusks, collectively weighing 25.35kg, estimated to be valued at approximately 16,000 USD (equivalent to N23,520,000.00k) in the intended destination country. This criminal activity constitutes a violation of both the Endangered Species Act of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Nigeria Customs Service Act.
According to the officer in charge of Nigeria Customs Service Special Wildlife Office, Asst Comptroller ABIM, “Illegal Wildlife Trade or trafficking of Wildlife is a criminal offence punishable under law and so Nigeria Customs Service will continue to support global effort to fight Wildlife crime.
“These suspects will definitely be prosecuted in the court of law “
