WCS hails Customs for arresting wildlife trafficker in Cross River

The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) has commended the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for its swift action in arresting a suspected wildlife trafficker at the Mfum/Ekok border in Cross River State.

The suspect was caught attempting to smuggle a shocking haul of endangered animal parts from Cameroon into Nigeria, including 213 parrot skulls, 29 packs of parrot feathers, six eagle skulls, one pack of eagle feathers, 128 African hornbill skulls, two gorilla skulls, and four gorilla hands and feet.

WCS Country Director, Andrew Dunn, praised the Customs officers for their vigilance, stating, “This arrest highlights the importance of our ongoing partnership with the Nigeria Customs Service. Every seized item represents a tragic loss for nature, but with continued collaboration and awareness, we can curb the illegal wildlife trade and protect endangered species from extinction.”

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He said the NCS has confirmed that the suspect, a Nigerian from Oyo State, was arrested on March 12 while crossing the border.
According to him, the suspect would remain in Customs’ custody pending further investigation and prosecution.

“The agency reaffirmed its commitment to tackling illegal wildlife trade through routine border control and surveillance,” Dunn said.

The WCS Country Director further explained that since 2020, the NGO has trained over 100 Customs personnel across Nigeria to strengthen anti-trafficking measures.

He noted that the organisation has also partnered with Customs and the Elephant Protection Initiative to establish ten secure storage facilities nationwide for seized wildlife products, ensuring proper handling and documentation.