The Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit, Zone D, Bauchi, has intercepted 718 pieces of donkey skins valued at over N24 million that were allegedly being smuggled out of the country.
Zonal Comptroller Abdullahi Kaila made this announcement during a media briefing, noting that the total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the seized items is N24,313,217. He emphasized that this operation aligns with the directive from Customs Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale to enforce a zero-tolerance policy against the illegal trade of endangered species.
Kaila explained that the trade and exportation of donkey skins is prohibited under both Nigerian law and international agreements, including CITES, which restricts the commercial trade of endangered wildlife.
Two suspects, identified as the driver and the owner of the goods, were arrested and will face prosecution under the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 and environmental protection laws. Kaila stated that this seizure showcases the service’s commitment to safeguarding biodiversity and national economic interests.
He warned that smuggling wildlife products amounts to economic sabotage and urged residents to provide credible information to help disrupt smuggling activities in the region.
This operation is part of the larger efforts by the Nigeria Customs Service to combat illegal wildlife trade. In a previous operation in July, the Apapa Area Command intercepted multiple containers filled with unregistered and prohibited products.
