Customs intercepts wildlife traffickers, rescues baby gorilla in Kano

The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, says it has dismantled a suspected wildlife trafficking syndicate in Kano State, arresting a suspected trafficker and rescuing a captive baby gorilla during an intelligence-led operation.

The operation was carried out on July 7, 2026, at Kofar Mata in Kano State. Its details were disclosed in an official report obtained on Thursday from the Officer-in-Charge of the NCS Special Wildlife Office, Assistant Comptroller of Customs, AC Anuhu Mani.

According to the report, the raid disrupted an illegal primate trafficking network operating within the area.

Operation and agencies involved

The report said the operation was executed 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.

Authorities said the breakthrough followed weeks of intelligence gathering and surveillance targeting syndicates involved in the illegal trade and supply of protected primates within the Kano axis.

The breakthrough followed weeks of meticulous intelligence gathering and surveillance targeting syndicates involved in the illicit trade and supply of protected primates within the Kano axis.

— AC Anuhu Mani, Officer-in-Charge, NCS Special Wildlife Office

The service said the outcome underscored the value of coordinated enforcement efforts and cooperation with conservation partners in addressing wildlife crime.

Rescue and treatment of the gorilla

The report stated that the rescued infant gorilla was immediately handed over to veterinary specialists after the operation.

It said the animal is receiving intensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.

The rescue formed a central part of the operation, which customs authorities described as a disruption of an illegal wildlife trafficking chain involving protected primates.

Investigation continues

Mani said investigations remain active as the service works through leads generated from the operation.

Investigations are actively ongoing as we follow all actionable leads generated from this operation.

— AC Anuhu Mani, Officer-in-Charge, NCS Special Wildlife Office

He added that the Nigeria Customs Service would not release further operational details at this stage, including the identity of the suspect arrested.

To preserve the integrity of the ongoing investigation and ensure that fleeing members of the trafficking network do not evade justice, the NCS is withholding further operational details, including the identity of the suspect,

— AC Anuhu Mani, Officer-in-Charge, NCS Special Wildlife Office

Customs reiterates stance on wildlife crime

Mani reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service's zero-tolerance policy against wildlife trafficking.

According to the report, he stressed the agency's commitment to enforcing laws that protect endangered species and preserve Nigeria's natural heritage.

The service said the operation also highlighted the role of inter-agency collaboration and partnerships with international conservation organisations in tackling trans-border wildlife crime.