In a remarkable operation, the Federal Operations Unit of the Nigeria Customs Service, Zone ‘D’ in Bauchi intercepted a shocking find—five sacks bursting with precious Pangolin Scales. The haul, valued at an astounding N432 million, weighs a staggering 216 kilograms. Addressing the press, Umar Abdullahi, the Public Relations Officer of FOU, shared the details of this significant achievement.
Acting on credible intelligence, the Controller, FOU Zone ‘D’ Bauchi, DC JO Adelaja, dispatched a skilled team to a makeshift shop at a Motor Park along the Sangere-Yola Axis in Adamawa State on May 11, 2023. The raid led to the confiscation of four large sacks and one small sack filled with Pangolin scales.
The Pangolin scales, weighing a total of 216 kg, hold a Duty Paid Value of N432 million. These illicit items blatantly violate section 63 of the Customs and Excise Management Act CAP 45 Laws of Nigeria. Importantly, the illegal wildlife trade, including the trafficking of Pangolins, goes against the provisions of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
This unprecedented seizure demonstrates the success achieved through information sharing, intelligence gathering, and the relentless dedication of the Officers and Men of the Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘D’. Their unwavering efforts are making the Zone increasingly inhospitable for smugglers.
Abdullahi takes this opportunity to implore well-meaning Nigerians to provide genuine information that can help eradicate smuggling, not only in the zone but also nationwide. Eradicating smuggling will not only boost the economy but also enable the Federal Government to provide essential social amenities for the citizens.
Sending a stern warning to smugglers, Abdullahi advises them to abandon their nefarious activities and seek legitimate employment. He assures them that the officers and men of the FOU Zone ‘D’ of the Nigerian Customs Service, led by Comptroller DC JO Adelaja, will continue their unwavering pursuit, making this zone an unbearable place for illicit trade.
