Customs seizes N52.6m contraband, rescues pangolins in Bauchi

The Nigeria Customs Service Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘D’ in Bauchi has seized contraband goods valued at N52.6 million and rescued endangered wildlife during operations conducted in February 2026.

The Comptroller of FOU Zone ‘D’, Abdullahi Ka’ila, disclosed this at a news conference on Friday, attributing the successes to intensified surveillance, intelligence-driven patrols and targeted operations aimed at curbing smuggling and protecting Nigeria’s economy and biodiversity.

According to him, intercepted items included a 2015 Mercedes-Benz ML350 4Matic suspected to have been smuggled through the Abuja–Nasarawa corridor. Officers also seized 612 jerricans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), amounting to 15,300 litres, at the Mubi axis in Adamawa State while the product was being prepared for illegal export.

In addition, 33 cartons of foreign soap were detained for failing to comply with import regulations.

Ka’ila further revealed that five live pangolins were rescued in Jalingo, Taraba State, following the arrest of three suspects linked to an attempted wildlife trafficking operation.

He described the rescue as significant, noting that pangolins are protected under international conservation rules.

He said the total Duty Paid Value of all seizures stood at N52,664,071, adding that wildlife trafficking violates Section 55(1) of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 and constitutes a serious transnational crime.

The comptroller explained that the operation aligns with the strategic directives of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, aimed at dismantling organised criminal networks.

He added that the rescued pangolins would be handed over to the Greenfingers Wildlife Initiative for rehabilitation and care.

Ka’ila commended partner conservation agencies and officers of the unit for their professionalism and urged the public to provide credible intelligence to support border security and environmental protection efforts.