Customs Unit Intercepts Endangered Species, Arrests Four Suspects, and Seizes Goods Worth Over N3 Billion in Kaduna
In a significant achievement in the fight against illegal trade and wildlife conservation, the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone 'B' Kaduna, led by Comptroller Ahmadu Bello Shuaibu, has intercepted endangered species and arrested four suspects in connection with the illegal activities.
Addressing a press conference on May 21, 2024, Comptroller Shuaibu revealed that the unit had made two separate seizures of donkey bones and meat, worth a combined total of over Three Billion Naira (N3,000,000,000). The first seizure, which occurred on April 25, 2024, involved 750 sacks of donkey bones, with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of Two Billion, Three Hundred and Sixty-Three Million, Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N2,363,500,000). One suspect was arrested in connection with the seizure.
The second seizure, which took place on May 5, 2024, involved 860 sacks of dried donkey meat, with a DPV of over One Billion Naira (N1,000,000,000). Three suspects were arrested in connection with this seizure.
Comptroller Shuaibu expressed sadness over the illegal trade in endangered species, particularly donkeys, which are being driven towards extinction. He emphasized that the Nigeria Customs Service is committed to enforcing laws and policy directives to prevent such illegal activities, as Nigeria is a signatory to international conventions aimed at protecting endangered species.
In addition to the endangered species seizures, the unit also intercepted 58,740 sachets of tramadol and 48,000 ampules of Anelgin injection, worth One Hundred and Sixty-Seven Million, Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N167,500,000). Other items seized include foreign rice, second-hand clothing, herbicide chemicals, and other general goods, with a total DPV of Three Billion, One Hundred and Seventy-Five Million, Eighty Four Thousand Naira, Two Hundred and Seventeen Naira and Seventy-Five Kobo (N3,175,084,217.75).
Comptroller Shuaibu commended the officers and men of the unit for their dedication and professionalism in carrying out their duties. He also appreciated the collaboration with other units and the media in disseminating the unit's achievements.
The Comptroller warned that the unit will continue to be vigilant and unsparing in implementing the laws and policy directives of the Federal Government, and urged those involved in illegal activities to desist from such acts. He also highlighted the unit's improved information technology capabilities, which have enhanced their intelligence gathering and anti-smuggling efforts.
The success of the FOU Zone 'B' Kaduna in intercepting endangered species and seizing illegal goods is a testament to the Nigeria Customs Service's commitment to protecting the country's borders and enforcing laws aimed at preserving endangered species and preventing illegal trade.
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