The Nigerian Customs Service says it has intercepted another loot of pangolin scales and elephant tusks in Lagos worth 3.1 billion naira.
The Customs Service said it seized a Toyota Sienna with registration number KRD 541 HH in the Lekki area of Lagos.
Customs Comptroller General Hameed Ali made this known at a press conference in Lagos on Wednesday.
Ali, who was represented by outgoing Service National Public Relations Officer Joseph Attah.
He said the seizure was carried out on February 2 by men from the CGC Strike Force.
“According to credible intelligence, the CGC Strike Force broke into the Lekki area of Lagos and intercepted a Toyota Sienna bus with registration number KRD 541 HH with chassis: STDZA23C955338572 suspected of being loaded with non-customs goods.
“Immediately, the vehicle with its contents, including four occupants (all Nigerians) were taken to the station and detained.
“After a 100 joint physical examination, the following items were found: 15 bags of pangolin scales and four bags of elephant tusks.
Customs intercepts N3.1 billion worth of pangolin scales and elephant tusks in Lagos
“The total number of intercepted elephant tusks is 145kg, while the total number of pangolin scales is 839.4kg with a total value of N3,155,667,500,” he said.
Mr. Ali noted that the operation was carried out in collaboration with the Wildlife Justice Commission, and focused on the illegal trade in wildlife from Africa to Asia.
He said what was seen today was the fourth major seizure of pangolin scales, ivory and other assorted wildlife parts in Nigeria in the last 13 months.
“We wish to specifically commend the Wildlife Justice Commission for its continued commitment to this cause through the provision of credible and actionable intelligence.
“Nigeria Customs appreciates this synergy of work and looks forward to more,” he said. (YAYA)