Kano/Jigawa Customs Intercepts Trafficked Wildlife, 3 Suspects
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Kano/Jigawa Area Command, has intercepted a consignment of illegally trafficked wildlife and arrested three male suspects along the Kano-Daura Road in an intelligence-led operation.
The operation was conducted at about 8:30 p.m. on August 25, 2026, following credible intelligence on the movement of endangered wildlife through the axis.
Speaking during the formal handover of the intercepted animals, the Acting Deputy Comptroller, Enforcement, Assistant Comptroller of Customs Muhammad Zanna, who represented the Acting Customs Area Controller, Kano/Jigawa Area Command, Deputy Comptroller Usman Adamu, said the operation was carried out in line with Section 55(1)(i) of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
Zanna said Customs officers maintained professionalism despite repeated attempts by the suspects to bribe them.
He said the interception had disrupted an illicit wildlife supply chain and would contribute to efforts to curb the trafficking of endangered species.
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Following physical examination, Customs officials identified the intercepted wildlife as four caracals, four chimpanzees, two baby gorillas, seven red patas monkeys, two galagos, one honey badger, two albino alligators, six rock fowls, one civet cat and 19 greater bustard birds.
The three suspects and the intercepted wildlife were subsequently handed over to a representative of the Special Wildlife Office at the NCS Headquarters for further investigation and prosecution.
Zanna commended the officers involved in the operation for their courage, vigilance and integrity, while appreciating the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and the NCS management for their continued support in protecting Nigeria’s borders and combating the illicit trafficking of endangered wildlife.
The Kano/Jigawa Area Command reaffirmed its commitment to tackling wildlife trafficking and protecting endangered species, warning individuals and criminal networks involved in the illegal trade that the Service would continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to disrupt activities threatening Nigeria’s biodiversity.
By PRNigeria
