The Borno/Yobe Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted 180 bags of psychoactive substances and a consignment of endangered wildlife species in separate anti-smuggling operations in Borno.
The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Idris Abdullahi, disclosed this while briefing journalists at the Command Headquarters in Maiduguri.
Abdullahi said the first interception occurred on April 15 along Kano Road following credible intelligence.
He explained that operatives intercepted a vehicle conveying 180 bags of a psychoactive substance popularly known as Akuskura.
“Each bag contained about 500 bottles, bringing the total to approximately 90,000 bottles.
“The substances were concealed in sacks and disguised as general merchandise to evade detection,” he said.
The CAC said that in a separate operation on April 20 at about 0930 hours, the command intercepted a consignment of endangered wildlife species along the same route.
He listed the items seized to include two live antelopes, one dead antelope, one porcupine, two civet cats, four eagles and 13 live tortoises.
According to him, preliminary investigations indicate that the animals fall under Appendix I and II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), to which Nigeria is a signatory.
Abdullahi said the seizures were made in line with the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, and relevant international conventions.
He warned that trafficking in narcotics and endangered species poses serious threats to public health, national security, biodiversity and Nigeria’s global reputation.
“The command remains resolute in its commitment to combating the smuggling of illicit drugs and wildlife products.
“These substances destroy our youth and fuel criminality, while illegal wildlife trade depletes our natural heritage and violates international conventions,” he said.
The CAC commended officers involved in the operations for their professionalism and acknowledged the support of other security agencies through intelligence sharing.
He urged members of the public to provide timely and credible information to assist in tackling smuggling and trans-border crimes.
Abdullahi also warned smugglers to desist from illegal activities and embrace lawful means of livelihood, noting that the seized items would be handed over to relevant agencies for further investigation and prosecution.
