The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has arrested a suspected wildlife trafficker and rescued a captive baby gorilla during a targeted operation in the Kofar Mata area of Kano State.
The operation was carried out by the NCS Special Wildlife Office under the Customs Intelligence Unit in collaboration with Focused Conservation, the Customs Police Unit, and officers of the Kano/Jigawa Area Command.
Speaking on the development, the Officer-in-Charge of the NCS Special Wildlife Office, Assistant Comptroller of Customs Anuhu Mani, confirmed that the rescued infant gorilla has been placed under the care of veterinary experts.
According to him, the animal is currently receiving specialised medical treatment and rehabilitation to aid its recovery after being rescued from captivity.
Mani explained that the operation was based on intelligence gathered on criminal networks allegedly involved in the illegal trade and distribution of protected primates within the Kano area.
He noted that the successful raid highlights the effectiveness of intelligence-led enforcement and the importance of collaboration between security agencies and wildlife conservation organisations in combating wildlife trafficking.
The Customs official added that investigations are continuing as authorities pursue additional leads generated during the operation to identify other individuals connected to the illegal wildlife trade.
The Nigeria Customs Service reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing wildlife protection laws and working with relevant partners to curb the trafficking of endangered species across the country.
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