# Pangolin illegal wildlife trafficking and conservation > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/pangolin-illegal-wildlife-trafficking-and-conservation > Updated: 2026-10-24T06:53:57.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2. Pangolins face persistent threats from illegal trafficking driven by demand for their scales and body parts in Asian markets, despite an international trade ban established in 2016. Various African regions serve as capture and transit points for these clandestine operations. Conservation and enforcement efforts include rescue and rehabilitation initiatives in Cameroon, where confiscated animals are trained to regain natural foraging behaviors. In Zimbabwe and Kenya, researchers utilize tracking technology to study animal movements and adaptation. In Nigeria, the Nigeria Customs Service has conducted intelligence-driven operations to intercept live pangolins being smuggled in cages. Rescued animals are transferred to specialized centers for rehabilitation and eventual release into protected habitats as authorities work to enforce the Endangered Species Act and international CITES obligations. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-24: Nigeria Customs Service rescues five live pangolins in Ogun State Nigeria's Customs Service intercepted five live pangolins in Ogun State during an anti-smuggling operation, warning traffickers that borders remain under active surveillance. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nigeria-customs-service-rescues-five-live-pangolins-in-ogun-state ### 2026-09-30: Pangolins face growing threats from illegal wildlife trafficking Pangolins face severe threats from illegal wildlife trafficking despite a 2016 international ban. Conservationists in Africa are working on rescue, rehabilitation, and habitat protection efforts. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/pangolins-face-growing-threats-from-illegal-wildlife-trafficking --- Cite as: Pangolin illegal wildlife trafficking and conservation. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/pangolin-illegal-wildlife-trafficking-and-conservation