Customs Arrest Four Suspected Wildlife Traffickers, Seize Elephant Tusks Worth N126.39m

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has arrested four suspected wildlife traffickers and seized 22 elephant tusks weighing 130.84 kilogrammes during a coordinated operation across Ogun and Lagos states.

The operation was carried out by the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A Lagos, in collaboration with the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) and the Wildlife Justice Commission (WJC).

Customs authorities described the operation as a major breakthrough in efforts to dismantle illegal wildlife trafficking networks and protect endangered species.

Speaking on Monday, the Comptroller of FOU Zone A, Comptroller Gambo Aliyu, said the seizure followed extensive intelligence gathering, surveillance and investigations targeting a suspected organised wildlife trafficking syndicate.

The elephant tusks were intercepted at approximately 4:30 p.m. on June 13 in Ofada, Mowe area of Ogun State, while additional suspects were simultaneously arrested at different locations in Lagos.

According to Customs, the seized ivory has an estimated black-market value of N126.39 million in Asia, where illegal ivory trade continues despite international restrictions.

Aliyu said the operation demonstrates the agency's determination to enforce national and international regulations governing the protection of endangered wildlife species.

He noted that Nigeria remains a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) which prohibits unlawful trade in protected species.

The Customs boss also cited Section 55(1)(i) of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, which criminalises the illegal trade in endangered wildlife.

“This seizure underscores our unwavering commitment to combating wildlife crime and protecting biodiversity,” Aliyu said.

He commended NESREA and the Wildlife Justice Commission for their intelligence support and collaboration, describing their contributions as crucial to the success of the operation.

The four suspects and the recovered tusks remain in Customs custody pending further investigation and prosecution.