Customs Intercepts Six Pangolins During Anti-Smuggling Operation in Oyo State

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone ‘A’, Lagos, has intercepted six pangolins at Eruwa-Oni in Oyo State during an intelligence-led operation aimed at curbing the illegal trafficking of endangered wildlife species.

The interception was made at about 3:00 a.m. on Sunday, November 8, 2026, during an intelligence-led patrol. The pangolins were abandoned by their handlers, who fled on sighting the patrol team.

All six pangolins were recovered alive and taken to the Unit’s Headquarters in Ikeja, Lagos. However, two died on arrival, while four remained alive.

In line with the Service’s commitment to environmental protection and the preservation of endangered species, the four surviving pangolins and the two carcasses were formally handed over to relevant wildlife officials for proper documentation and further action.

The handover was carried out by the Deputy Comptroller of Enforcement, DC A.O. Oguntuase, on behalf of the Comptroller of the Federal Operations Unit, Zone ‘A’, Lagos.

The interception highlights the Nigeria Customs Service’s ongoing efforts to tackle the illegal exploitation and trafficking of protected wildlife species while contributing to biodiversity conservation and environmental sustainability.

The Unit stressed that protecting endangered species is a shared responsibility and urged members of the public to provide credible and timely information to law enforcement agencies to help identify and apprehend individuals involved in the illegal capture, possession, transportation and trafficking of protected wildlife.

The Federal Operations Unit, Zone ‘A’, reaffirmed its commitment to suppressing smuggling and other forms of illicit trade while strengthening collaboration with relevant agencies to protect Nigeria’s natural heritage.