Two rare lion cubs rescued as customs bust trafficking ring in Abuja

The Nigeria Customs Service says it intercepted a wildlife trafficking attempt at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on August 4, rescuing two lion cubs and arresting three suspects, according to Peoples Gazette.

Officials said the suspects planned to move the cubs from Kano through Abuja to Congo-Brazzaville. Operatives found the animals concealed in crates after hearing cries from a vehicle’s cargo compartment.

Assistant Comptroller Anuhu Mani said Nigeria “will not serve as a transit hub” for trafficking syndicates, adding that the suspects were being interrogated to unravel the broader network behind the operation.