Nigeria Customs Service intercepts endangered wildlife consignment

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Kano/Jigawa Area Command intercepted a large consignment of endangered wildlife and arrested three suspects along the Kano-Daura Road. The operation was conducted following intelligence and aligns with the NCS Act 2023 and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

The seized animals included four caracal wild cats, four chimpanzees, two baby gorillas, seven patas monkeys, two galagos (bush babies), one honey badger, two albino alligators, six rock fowls, one civet cat, and 19 greater bustard wild birds.

Acting Deputy Comptroller of Enforcement Muhammad Zanna reported that the suspects allegedly attempted to bribe officers to secure the release of the consignment, but the attempts were rebuffed. The suspects and the animals have been transferred to the Special Wildlife Office at the NCS headquarters for investigation and prosecution.