The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has seized pangolin scales and elephant tusks worth N22.3 billion in Lagos.
The Comptroller General of Customs, Col. Hameed Ali (Rtd.), speaking to newsmen on Wednesday, said the pangolin scales (196 sacks) weighed 17,137.44 kilograms; elephant tusks, 870.44 kilograms and pangolin claws, 4.60 kilograms.
Ali disclosed that the seized items were evacuated at a location on eastern side of Ijeoma Street, Lekki, Lagos State, after proper examination.
He noted that three suspects have been arrested in connection with the seizure.
According to him, the seizure is in line with Section 63 “e” and “g” of Customs and Excise Management Act (CEMA), Cap 45 LFN 2004 as amended.
The suspects arrested are: Mr. Traore Djakonba, Mr. Isiak Musa and Mr. Mohammed Bereta.
He added that the Kingpin, Mr. Berete Morybinet, is on the run but all security agencies are on red alert at all entry and exit points to arrest him to face justice.
The Customs boss assured that the suspects arrested would soon be tried in court, as NCS would extend the same treatment to any person or organisation remotely connected to any illegal wildlife trade.
