The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Kano/Jigawa Command, has arrested suspects and confiscated 420kg of pangolin scales, valued at millions of naira, smuggled into Kano.
Announcing this to the press, the Command’s Comptroller, Abubakar Dalhatu, vowed that the Command is firmly committed to combating any threat to wildlife.
Pangolin scales are made of keratin—the same material found in human fingernails and hair. These scales, which cover the pangolin’s body, are large, hardened, and overlapping, serving as protective armor for the animal.
Investigations have revealed that Nigerian pangolins are facing severe threats from illegal trafficking.
It was also disclosed that while pangolins are hunted for their meat, their scales are highly sought after for use in traditional medicine and other purposes, particularly in Asia.
Dalhatu stated that the arrests were made during a joint operation by the Command’s Special Wildlife Office, Intelligence Unit, and Police Unit, leveraging combined expertise and vigilance on July 16, 2025.
He noted that the operation, which led to the recovery of 420kg of pangolin scales, was aimed at combating illicit international trade in wildlife and related crimes.
The operation also sought to protect valuable species, preserve natural resources, and mitigate threats to biodiversity, ecological balance, and national security.
He warned that the Command would not tolerate any threat to wildlife or wildlife-related crimes.
The Comptroller commended the efforts of the officers involved in the operation, the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale, and international partners for their roles in the successful operation.
He reiterated the Command’s commitment to increasing surveillance through technological means to combat wildlife crimes and protect endangered species.
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