In a landmark decision, Mamoduo Barete, a native of Guinea, has been handed a two-year prison term by Justice Yelim Bogoro of the Federal High Court in Lagos. The conviction stems from Mamoduo’s involvement in the illegal trafficking and trading of pangolin scales, a prohibited and endangered wildlife species.
By Shalom Kasim
The Nigerian Customs played a pivotal role in securing Mamoduo’s conviction on charges of conspiracy, trafficking, and trading in pangolin scales, offenses outlined in Section 516 of the Criminal Code, 2004. The court ruled that Mamoduo must serve the two-year sentence or opt for a fine of N500,000.
The conviction resulted from a joint operation conducted by the Nigerian Customs Service and the Wildlife Justice Commission (WJC) in December 2022.
The successful collaboration underscores the effectiveness of partnerships in combating transnational organized crime networks involved in illegal wildlife trade.
In a statement released on Thursday, December 21, via the Nigerian Customs Service’s X handle, Mamoduo’s case is highlighted as the latest success in the fight against illegal wildlife activities. The statement notes that the NCS and WJC partnership has proven to be effective and is committed to targeting such criminal networks.
The Nigerian Customs Service proudly announced that Mamoduo’s conviction marks the 11th successful prosecution in illegal wildlife cases between May and December 12, 2023. Furthermore, numerous other wildlife trafficking suspects are currently undergoing trial in courts.
The statement concluded by commending the Nigeria Customs Service for its exemplary role in combatting illegal wildlife activities. The NCS’s Special Wildlife Office and prosecutors are recognized for their relentless efforts and coordination, making them a global model in the fight against wildlife crime.
