The Ogun I Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has recorded a major enforcement breakthrough with the interception of four live pangolins during a high-risk patrol operation along the Yemoamota–Igboora corridor of Ogun State.
The seizure, executed in the early hours of Thursday, underscores the Service’s renewed resolve to protect endangered species and uphold Nigeria’s obligations under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
In a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Customs Chado Zakari, the operation was triggered by actionable intelligence received by officers on night patrol.
At about 3:00 a.m. on February 12, 2026, operatives intercepted a motorcycle moving suspiciously through the Yemoamota–Abule–Igboora and Ebute-Igboora axis, a route notorious for illicit cross-border activity.
A search of the motorcycle revealed four live pangolins tightly confined in wire-mesh cages and concealed inside a sack, a method that officials say points to a well-organised and experienced smuggling network.
Sensing imminent arrest, the suspects reportedly abandoned both the motorcycle and the animals, disappearing into the surrounding terrain under the cover of darkness.
Customs officers immediately secured the endangered animals and initiated protocols to ensure their safety and survival, reflecting a growing emphasis on humane enforcement practices.
On Friday, February 13, 2026, the rescued pangolins were formally handed over to the Wildlife Conservation Centre for expert care and rehabilitation.
The handover was carried out by Assistant Comptroller Tajjudeen Bello, Acting Deputy Controller (Administration), on behalf of the Acting Customs Area Controller, Oladapo Afeni.
Commending the officers involved, Afeni said the operation demonstrated courage, professionalism and intelligence-driven policing, warning traffickers that the Command remains battle-ready to dismantle all networks involved in the illegal wildlife trade.
He reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to sustained collaboration with conservation bodies and security agencies, stressing that Ogun I Command would continue to tighten the noose on smugglers who seek to profit from the destruction of Nigeria’s natural heritage.