NCS Impounds Elephant Tusks

The seme command of the Nigeria customs service impounded nine (9) large elephant tusks concealed in a vehicle from the Benin republic. According to the comptroller, Sahabi A. Sadiq while addressing the journalist in his office yesterday said the vehicle was intercepted along seme/Badagry road by their roving team.

The suspect, a Chadian who claimed ownership of the consignment when accosted is presently in their custody while preliminary investigations continue. According to him this is the first in the history of the command to intercept such item which is an internationally prohibited item of endangered species. As of the time of going to the press, the market value of the tusks has not been determined. He reiterated his commands ever readiness to combat smuggling.

The suspect will be handed over to appropriate authorities on completion of their investigations. The comptroller appealed to the press to always confirm their stories before disseminating information to the general public. He said some items may not be prohibited but if due process is not followed, such items may be impounded.