A joint operation by the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) and the National Park Service has led to the arrest of three suspects, Musa Usman, Samila Abdullahi and Saidu Jagaban, for trafficking in endangered wildlife species.

In a statement in Abuja, the Director General of NESREA, Prof. Innocent Barikor, reminded citizens that trafficking in endangered species remains a crime under Nigerian law, warning that perpetrators will be prosecuted accordingly.

According to Barikor, the suspects were arrested in different parts of the city for illegal sale of prohibited exotic birds and wild animals, contrary to the provisions of the Endangered Species Act.

He explained that Usman and Abdullahi were found in possession of 15 Senegalese Parrots and one African Grey Parrot, while Saidu Jagaban was arrested for hawking three dead antelopes. He also revealed that the trio will remain in custody pending the conclusion of investigation.

The director general stressed that all living things play different roles in ensuring biodiversity sustainability, hence the need to protect those classified as endangered species under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) to which Nigeria is a party.