Wildlife Trafficking: FOU A Customs Intercepts Four Live Pangolins Along Ajilete Creeks
Ajilete, Ogun State – 15 January 2026
The Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A of the Nigeria Customs Service has recorded a major success in the fight against wildlife trafficking with the interception of four live pangolins along the Ajilete creeks in Ogun State.
The interception occurred on Thursday, 15 January 2026, when operatives of the Unit, acting on credible intelligence, stopped a wooden boat conveying the endangered animals in wire mesh cages along Alapa Creek, Ajilete.
According to a press release signed by the Public Relations Officer of the Unit, Chief Superintendent of Customs Hussaini Abdullahi, and dated 19 January 2026, the suspected smugglers abandoned the boat and fled into the creeks upon sighting Customs officers.
“The operatives discovered four live pangolins concealed in wire mesh cages inside the boat,” the statement said, noting that the swift response of the patrol team prevented the animals from being trafficked out of the area.
Following the interception, the rescued pangolins were handed over to the Wildlife Conservation Centre for proper care and safekeeping. The handover was conducted by the Deputy Comptroller of Customs in charge of Enforcement, Oluwaseun Oguntuase, on behalf of the Comptroller, FOU Zone A, Gambo Aliyu.
Commending the officers involved in the operation, Comptroller Aliyu described the interception as a reflection of the Unit’s dedication to protecting Nigeria’s biodiversity.
“This interception reflects the professionalism, courage and commitment of our officers, particularly during night operations,” he said. “I urge all personnel to remain vigilant and resolute in tackling trans-border crimes, as the Unit will continue to enforce wildlife protection laws and collaborate with relevant stakeholders to eradicate the illegal trade in endangered species.”
The seizure underscores the Nigeria Customs Service’s ongoing efforts to combat wildlife trafficking and strengthen enforcement against environmental crimes across the country.
