The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has once again demonstrated its commitment to fighting smuggling and contraband trade in the country, as its Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone D, Bauchi, seized pangolin scales worth N432 million.
According to Mr Umar Abdullahi, the spokesman of the Zone, the pangolin scales weighing 216kg were discovered at a makeshift shop along the Sangere-Yola axis in Adamawa State on May 11. The possession of the contraband scales contravenes Section 63 of the Customs and Excise Management Act CAP 45 Laws of Nigeria.
The Comptroller, FOU Zone ‘D’ Bauchi, Mr Joseph Adelaja, acting on credible intelligence, deployed operatives to raid the motor park and evacuate four sacks and one small sack of pangolin scales. The DPV of the scales was valued at N432 million.
The seizure of pangolin scales, which are used in traditional medicines and for illegal trade, is a significant victory against smuggling in Nigeria. Speaking on the seizure, Mr Abdullahi stated that the NCS would continue to clamp down on the smuggling of prohibited items, and urged the public to assist the agency with information on illegal activities.
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