Metro/Crime

Customs intercepts trafficking ring at Abuja Airport, rescues two rare lion cubs

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The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted an international wildlife trafficking attempt at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, rescuing two live lion cubs and arresting three key suspects in a targeted, intelligence-led operation.

The raid, executed on 4 August 2026, was spearheaded by the Special Wildlife Office (SWO) of the Customs Intelligence Unit (CIU), in collaboration with the FCT CIU, the Customs Police Unit (CPU), the FCT Command, and conservation partner Focused Conservation.

According to official report release by Assistant Comptroller of Customs Anuhu Mani , Officer-in-Charge of the Special Wildlife Office on 10 August 2026, revealed that the suspects were attempting to transport the lion cubs from Kano through Abuja, with Congo-Brazzaville as their final destination.

Acting on actionable intelligence, Customs operatives mounted surveillance at the airport’s Cargo Terminal, locking onto a black SUV linked to the illicit movement. The operation took a crucial turn when an eagle-eyed CIU operative conducting a physical inspection of the vehicle heard animal cries coming from the rear compartment. Upon opening the luggage area, officers uncovered the two lion cubs concealed in crates.

Mani stated that three suspects, alleged owner of the animals, the vehicle’s driver, and a Customs clearing agent were immediately taken into custody. They are currently undergoing interrogation to unravel the broader syndicate behind the operation.

He emphasized the zero-tolerance stance of the Service saying
”This operation sends an unmistakable message that Nigeria will not serve as a transit hub or safe haven for wildlife trafficking syndicates,” He further stated that “With fewer lions remaining in Nigeria’s wild, saving these cubs is not just an enforcement success, it is a critical conservation victory. Our specialized unit will continue to leverage intelligence, profile trade routes, and prosecute those who profit from the illegal trade of our endangered species.”

According to him, the illegal transport violates key national and global wildlife protection laws, including the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and Nigeria’s Endangered Species Act (ESA).Following their rescue, the lion cubs were handed over to Greenfingers Wildlife Conservation Initiative for specialized veterinary care and rehabilitation.

The successful bust according to him, underscores the evolving role of the NCS under the leadership of Comptroller-General of Customs Adewale Adeniyi, positioning the Service as a vital line of defense against organized environmental crime across West Africa’s transport corridors.