The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone A, has intercepted six pangolins during an intelligence-led patrol at Eruwa-Oni in Oyo State.
The operation took place around 3:00 a.m. on Sunday, November 8, 2026, when the animals were reportedly abandoned by their handlers, who fled after sighting the patrol team.
According to the Customs Service, all six pangolins were recovered alive and transported to its headquarters in Ikeja, Lagos. However, two died upon arrival, while the remaining four survived.
The animals, including the two carcasses, were subsequently handed over to relevant wildlife officials for documentation and further action.
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The Deputy Comptroller in charge of Enforcement, Oluwaseun Oguntuase, who carried out the handover on behalf of the unit’s Comptroller, Oladapo Afeni, said the interception demonstrated the Service’s commitment to tackling illegal wildlife trafficking and protecting endangered species.
The Customs Service also urged members of the public to provide credible information that could help identify and apprehend individuals involved in the illegal capture, possession, transportation and trafficking of protected wildlife.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to combating smuggling and working with relevant authorities to protect Nigeria’s biodiversity and natural heritage.
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