In a significant operation, the Nigeria Customs Service apprehended three individuals for their involvement in the illicit export of elephant tusks to Asia.
According to PUNCH, these men were taken into custody at various locations in Lagos between January 25, 2024, and February 4 and 6, 2024.
Their alleged role was in facilitating the sale and export of five pieces of elephant tusk, collectively weighing 25.35 kilograms and valued at approximately $16,000 (equivalent to N23,520,000).
The arrest was the result of a joint enforcement operation conducted by the Customs Special Wildlife Office and the Customs Police Unit, in collaboration with the Wildlife Justice Commission.
This intelligence-led effort aimed to curb rampant wildlife trafficking, particularly concerning the endangered elephant population in Nigeria.
Over the past three decades, the country has witnessed a drastic decline in its elephant numbers—from an estimated 1,500 to less than 400—due to factors such as poaching for ivory, habitat loss, and human-elephant conflict.
Assistant Comptroller Abim Isafiade, who heads the Nigeria Customs Service Special Wildlife Office, emphasized their unwavering commitment to combat illegal wildlife trade.
Notably, on January 9, 2024, Nigeria destroyed 2.5 tonnes of seized elephant tusks valued at over N9.9 billion ($11.2 million).
Despite a decades-long ban on international ivory trade, tens of thousands of elephants continue to be killed annually for their tusks. Nigeria, unfortunately, has become a hub for illegal animal part trade, with major markets operating in Asia.
The suspects apprehended in this case will face legal consequences as investigations conclude.
The fight against wildlife crime remains a global priority, and the Nigeria Customs Service stands firm in its resolve to dismantle criminal networks involved in this illicit trade.
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