Smugglers Hit as Customs Intercept N1.728bn Pangolin Scales in Lagos By Francis Ugwoke
Hammed Ali, CG, Customs
It was bad business for smugglers as the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on Monday announced the interception of 1,014.5 kilograms of Pangolin scales which Duty Paid Value (DPV) was put at N 1.728bn.
The Service said the interception was with the collaboration of Wild Life Justice Commission, WLJC.
The Comptroller General of Customs, CGC, Hammed Alli (rtd) disclosed that the seizure included 15 sacks and five kilograms of Pangolin Claws.
Ali who was represented by the Public Relations Officer of the Service, Mr Joseph Attah said two suspects, Salif Sanwidi and Sunday Enenyi have been arrested in connection with the seizures.
According to Ali the Service is going with the investigation to apprehend other suspects believed to have gone into hiding.
He told newsmen the intelligence received from wildlife justice commission was what led to the arrest.
The discovery of the items, it was gathered followed the deployment of operatives of the Strike Force as a SWOT team.
He said, “This led to the interception of one (1) Mercedes Benz Bus with registration number BGT 256 LG along Kudieat Abiola Way Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos”.
“For the avoidance of doubt, illegal wildlife trade contravenes section 63 “e” and “g” of CEMA Cap 45 LFN 2004. Nigeria is a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. As a responsible member of the global community, we cannot allow our nation to be used as a conduit pipe for illegal trade in wildlife.
“We remain committed to the quarterly meeting with embassies of USA, UK, and Germany and welcome on board other International organizations that are joining the fray.
“We commend Wild Life Justice Commission for their continued strong commitment to this course through the provision of credible actionable intelligence, including technical aids. NCS appreciates this working synergy and looks forward to more.
“You will recall that Nigeria Customs Service acting on credible intelligence provided by our international partners announced wildlife seizure over N22 billion with arrested suspects currently facing prosecution”.
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