The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has made a significant breakthrough in combating wildlife trafficking and illegal arms trade, announcing the arrest of a Cameroonian national found in possession of a pistol, live ammunition, and 52 elephant tusks in Mfum, a border town in the Ikom Local Government Area of Cross River.

Comptroller Ahmed Waziri, the Customs Area Controller (CAC) of Cross River/CFTZ/Akwa Ibom Command, disclosed the arrest during a news conference in Calabar on Monday, February 12, 2024. The apprehension took place on Thursday, February 8, 2024, by NCS operatives in Mfum.

The seized elephant tusks, weighing 200kg, were estimated to be valued at N300 million.

Mohammed Ibrahim, a Cameroonian national, was taken into custody while allegedly en route to Lagos for the further transportation of the illicit items. The suspect was driving a Honda SUV truck with the number plate FST 733 HH.

Comptroller Waziri revealed, “The suspect has two number plates (Lagos): FST 733 HH and (CMR) LT 214 AY. A service pistol was discovered inside the vehicle with live ammunition.”

Preliminary investigations indicated that Ibrahim specialized in the illegal exportation of elephant tusks across international borders. The interception underscores Nigeria’s commitment to combatting the illicit trade in endangered species and arms.

Comptroller Waziri issued a stern warning that Nigeria will not tolerate being used as a transit route for illicit products, emphasizing the country’s adherence to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

Highlighting the crucial role of border communities in maintaining security, Waziri commended the officers at Mfum for their vigilance, resulting in the interception of items worth over N300 million and the apprehension of the suspect.

He expressed gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, and his management team for their support, acknowledging that their assistance created an enabling environment for the successful operation.

This arrest demonstrates the collaborative efforts of the NCS in curbing illicit activities and protecting endangered species, contributing to the broader goals of national and international wildlife conservation.