March 8, 2026 – Cross River State, Nigeria
In a significant victory against illegal wildlife trafficking, the Nigeria Customs Service Special Wildlife Office (NSWO), in collaboration with the Okwangwo Division of Cross River National Park, successfully executed Operation Fiesta, resulting in the rescue of 43 live wild animals and the arrest of two suspects.
Acting on credible intelligence, NSWO officers targeted a location operated by Sterling Oil Exploration & Energy Company Ltd (SEEPCO), where protected wildlife was suspected to be held in violation of Nigeria’s Endangered Species Act. With support from Focused Conservation and in partnership with National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) and Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Nigeria, officers conducted a coordinated operation at the site.
Upon entry, officers moved swiftly to locate, secure, and transfer animals into appropriate rehabilitation and care facilities. The operation resulted in the recovery of a diverse range of species, including:
Primates
- Patas monkey (2)
- Mona monkey (2)
- Mona hybrid (1)
- Putty-nosed guenon (2)
- Tantalus monkey (5)
- Red-eared guenon (3)
- Olive baboon (1)
- Drill monkey (2)
Birds
- Red-headed lovebird (6)
- Senegalese parrot (5)
- African grey parrot (5)
Other Species
- Blue duiker (1)
- Forest hinge-back tortoise(8)
Investigators noted several indicators inconsistent with lawful or incidental possession. Notably, many of the animals were found in male-female pairs—a pattern highly unlikely in cases involving injured wildlife rescued from the wild. Additionally, officers recovered salt lick blocks and trail camera equipment, items commonly associated with wildlife capture and monitoring activities. These findings further supported the initial intelligence assessment.
Two individuals were arrested at the scene and transported for interview. Both have since been formally charged. The investigation remains ongoing for potential violations of the Endangered Species Act and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
This operation highlights the growing capability and professionalism of the NSWO in tackling complex wildlife crime. Their decisive action not only disrupted an illegal operation but ensured the survival and future care of dozens of animals.
This operation also reflects the importance of strong partnerships. The collaboration between NSWO, NESREA, WCS Nigeria, and Focused Conservation demonstrates what can be achieved when organizations work together toward a common goal of protecting wildlife and holding offenders accountable.
Operation Fiesta stands as a clear example of how intelligence-led enforcement, combined with coordinated action and expert support, can deliver meaningful results in the fight against wildlife crime.
