Wildlife Trafficking Kingpin Arrested in Nigeria: A Landmark Blow Against Transnational Crime

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In a historic victory against international wildlife trafficking, Nigerian authorities, with intelligence provided by the Wildlife Justice Commission (WJC), have arrested a high-ranking Chinese wildlife trafficker in Lagos. This crucial development marks a major disruption to the organized criminal networks responsible for the illegal trade of pangolin scales and other endangered wildlife products between Africa and Asia.

A Seizure That Changed Everything

The arrest stems from an unprecedented wildlife contraband bust in Ogun, Nigeria, in August 2024. Acting on WJC intelligence, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) raided a warehouse, seizing 31 bags of pangolin scales on August 8. A follow-up operation two days later uncovered a staggering 148 additional bags, bringing the total haul to an unprecedented 7.2 tonnes—the largest-ever WJC-supported seizure.

Investigations soon pointed to a powerful Chinese trafficker suspected of being the mastermind behind the illegal stockpile. For six months, Nigerian authorities meticulously tracked him down. On February 19, 2025, the suspect was finally apprehended in Lagos, dealing a devastating blow to one of the world's most elusive wildlife trafficking syndicates.

Breaking New Ground in the Fight Against Wildlife Crime

This milestone arrest is significant for multiple reasons:

It marks the first time a Chinese wildlife trafficking suspect has been arrested in Nigeria due to a WJC-backed investigation.

It is the second high-profile kingpin taken down in Nigeria through WJC collaboration.

It sends a powerful message that illegal wildlife trade will no longer be conducted with impunity.

Since July 2021, the WJC has worked closely with the Nigeria Customs Service, providing intelligence analysis, investigative support, and evidentiary assistance. This ongoing collaboration has yielded impressive results:

17 joint operations executed

37 arrests made

21.5 tonnes of pangolin scales and over one tonne of ivory seized

12 successful convictions, including a Vietnamese trafficking kingpin and his associates

Furthermore, WJC-supported efforts have led to the disruption of transnational trafficking routes, with no major African pangolin scale seizures reported at any global seaports in over three years—a sign that these networks are being effectively dismantled.

Crippling the Illegal Wildlife Trade at Its Core

The economic impact of this operation is substantial. The 7.2-tonne pangolin scale seizure alone was valued at over USD 1.4 million in Asian black markets, significantly undercutting the traffickers’ financial operations. By targeting the upper echelons of wildlife crime syndicates, authorities are striking at the very heart of an illicit industry worth billions globally.

"This arrest represents a gold standard in wildlife crime investigations," said Olivia Swaak-Goldman, Executive Director of the WJC. "The swift action taken by NCS, guided by our intelligence, highlights the power of proactive law enforcement in targeting top-tier traffickers. By dismantling these networks from the top down, we are making a tangible impact in the fight against extinction."

A Call to Action: Strengthening the Global Fight

Nigeria’s aggressive stance on wildlife crime signals a broader shift in the global fight against illegal trafficking. As pressure mounts on criminal networks, the risks for traffickers continue to rise. This latest arrest reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to tackling transnational crime and sets a precedent for other nations battling the illegal wildlife trade.

The Wildlife Justice Commission remains steadfast in its mission—to collect evidence, support law enforcement, and drive accountability. Through strategic operations, undercover investigations, and policy advocacy, the WJC is leading the charge to dismantle wildlife trafficking networks and protect endangered species from exploitation.

The battle is far from over, but with every trafficker brought to justice, the scales tip further in favor of conservation and justice.

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