On 5 December 2024, a major operation led by Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), with support from the Wildlife Justice Commission (WJC), has resulted in the arrest of a suspected pangolin scale broker and the seizure of 2.179 tonnes of pangolin scales, equivalent to approximately 1,100 pangolins. This marks a significant blow to transnational wildlife trafficking networks operating in Nigeria.
Acting on WJC intelligence, NCS officers arrested the suspect, believed to be part of a network involved in the supply of vast quantities of pangolin scales to trafficking networks based in Lagos.
Key highlights of the operation
The seizure marks the third NCS-WJC pangolin scale operation in 2024 and the fourth in Nigeria this year. Since July 2021, the NCS-WJC partnership has been responsible for 95% of all pangolin scale seizures in Nigeria.
The collaboration has resulted in 16 operations, 35 arrests, 12 convictions, and the seizure of 21,582 tonnes of pangolin scales and 1.065 tonnes of ivory since July 2021.
The seizure and arrest of the suspected broker of the stockpile are anticipated to deliver immediate, multi-level disruption to trafficking networks within Nigeria.
Reshaping wildlife crime dynamics
The NCS-WJC partnership has profoundly disrupted wildlife trafficking in Nigeria, strengthening law enforcement efforts, increasing risks for traffickers, and crippling Lagos-based criminal networks involved in ivory and pangolin scale trafficking. This impact is evidenced by the absence of reported significant seizures of African pangolin scales at any seaport globally for over two years.
“This operation underscores the unwavering commitment of Nigerian authorities to combat wildlife crime and protect endangered species. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the NCS for their exemplary efforts and dedication,” said Olivia Swaak-Goldman, Executive Director of the WJC. “The scale of this seizure and the arrest of a key broker send a powerful message that Nigeria is resolute in its fight against wildlife trafficking.”
The Wildlife Justice Commission remains committed to supporting global efforts to combat wildlife crime and protect vulnerable species.
