In a successful operation spurred by critical intelligence developed by Focused Conservation, Nigeria Special Wildlife Officers (NSWO) recently intercepted a wildlife trafficking attempt involving twelve (12) live African Grey Parrots.
Dubbed Operation Beach, the investigation began in Kaduna, where officers were deployed to monitor suspicious, unaccompanied boxes believed to contain wildlife. The boxes were being transported via commercial bus from Kaduna to Lagos—a route that passed through numerous checkpoints where, surprisingly, the boxes were not inspected.
After an overnight surveillance operation that stretched across the journey to Lagos, the two boxes were transferred upon arrival to a mini-bus heading into a known law enforcement-hostile area of the city. Due to the heightened safety risks, officers made the decision to intercept the mini-bus prior to its arrival. The driver was arrested on the scene.
Upon examination, the boxes were found to contain twelve live African Grey Parrots, a highly trafficked and protected species. The parrots received initial assessment and care at a local wildlife park and are pending transfer to the Pandrillus Nigeria Drill Ranch in Calabar for rehabilitation and long-term care.
The investigation remains ongoing as officers pursue leads related to the origin of the parrots and the broader trafficking network involved.
This operation highlights the continued commitment of Focused Conservation and its partners in disrupting illegal wildlife trade and protecting endangered species around the world.
