In a high-profile crackdown on illegal wildlife trade, the Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone C, Owerri, has intercepted a shipment of dried donkey skins valued at a staggering N3.6 billion. This operation marks one of the most significant seizures related to the illicit export of animal products in recent years.
According to Customs officials, the 40-foot container, discovered in Imo State, was filled with over 13.5 metric tons of salted dry donkey skins. A total of 3,022 pieces were found neatly packed in sacks, averaging 4.5 kilograms per piece. Investigations revealed the container was set for illegal export, a clear violation of Nigeria's Export Prohibition List.
The Customs Area Controller, Abdullahi Balogun, revealed that the operation was the result of meticulous intelligence gathering and vigilant surveillance. He emphasized the environmental and biodiversity risks associated with the illegal trade of donkey skin, often used in traditional medicine and cosmetics in parts of Asia.
"This seizure is not only about stopping economic sabotage; it is about protecting endangered species and upholding Nigeria's commitment to biodiversity conservation," Balogun stated.
With a global unit price estimated at \$166.60 per kilogram, the economic and ecological implications of such illegal exports are alarming. The interception comes amidst ongoing efforts by the Nigerian government to clamp down on wildlife trafficking and enforce international trade protocols.
The leadership of Comptroller General Bashir Adeniyi has reinforced Customs' resolve to enforce trade laws, warning smugglers and syndicates that the service will not relent in its duty. Enhanced surveillance and intelligence-based operations are to be intensified across all zones.
This latest development follows similar seizures in other regions, such as the N1.5 billion worth of contraband intercepted in early June and \$193,000 hidden in yogurt cartons at the Abuja Airport earlier in March. These continuous efforts highlight Nigeria's increasing intolerance for illicit trade.
As Nigeria battles economic instability and seeks to improve its international trade reputation, combating illegal exports like this becomes not only a legal necessity but also a moral imperative.
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