…Arrest 4 suspects in Lagos-Ogun wildlife bust
By Seun Ibiyemi
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘A’, in collaboration with the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) and the Wildlife Justice Commission (WJC), has recorded a major breakthrough in its fight against illegal wildlife trafficking with the interception of 22 pieces of elephant tusks weighing 130.84kg.
Four male suspects and a vehicle were also arrested during the coordinated operation carried out across Lagos and Ogun States.
According to a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the NCS Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘A’, Chief Superintendent of Customs Hussaini Abdullahi, the operation was based on intelligence-led surveillance and investigation targeting an organised wildlife trafficking syndicate operating within and outside Nigeria.
The seizure was made at about 4:30pm on June 13, 2026, at Ofada, Mowe in Ogun State, while other coordinated arrests were carried out simultaneously in parts of Lagos.
The intercepted elephant tusks, reportedly destined for markets in Asia, have an estimated black market value of ₦126,390,440.
The statement confirmed that the seized items and suspects are currently in custody and will be handed over for further investigation and prosecution.
The Comptroller of the Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘A’, Gambo Aliyu, described the operation as a strong indication of the unit’s commitment to enforcing both national and international wildlife protection laws, particularly the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), to which Nigeria is a signatory.
He also referenced the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, noting that Section 55(1) explicitly prohibits the illegal trade in endangered species.
According to him, the successful operation underscores ongoing efforts by enforcement agencies to dismantle wildlife trafficking networks and protect endangered species from extinction.
The Comptroller commended partner agencies, especially NESREA and WJC, for their critical support in the operation, stressing that inter-agency collaboration remains vital in tackling transnational environmental crimes.
He further urged the public to assist security agencies by providing timely information on suspicious shipments or activities linked to wildlife trafficking, warning that the Service would continue to take firm action against offenders.
“The Nigeria Customs Service will not hesitate to enforce the law against anyone found engaging in illegal wildlife trade,” the statement added.
