2 Chinese arrested, the largest seizure of pangolin scales in Central Africa

LAGA´s investigation led to one of the largest seizures of pangolin scales in the Central African sub-region. In January 2 Chinese traffickers were arrested in the action and 5.4 tons of pangolin scales were seized. Over 300 boxes full of pangolin scales were concealed in two solidly sealed and welded containers in a Douala-based company run by Chinese nationals.

The traffickers tried several evasion tactics to prevent the team from opening the containers despite the presentation of a search warrant. But then two pieces of pangolin scales were found in the area. The arresting team spent several hours trying to cut open the metal containers, but in the end had to engage a welder. When they finally succeeded in cutting the metal open, they discovered iron boxes, welded into frames and covered with metal to disguise them when passed through scanners at the ports. The two managers claimed the shipment contained broken machines to be exported to China for repairs.

The containers had been packed ready for shipment out of the country since a month ago and formalities were being carried out by the traffickers to ensure smooth passage at the ports.

The arrest is another demonstration of the tragic magnitude of pangolin scales trafficking and the role played by some Chinese nationals in it. Last June over 4 tons of pangolin scales exported from Cameroon were seized in Hong Kong. These two seizures together represent between 10,000 and 20,000 pangolins slaughtered in the wild.

During the last Conference of Parties of CITES held in South Africa in September 2016, pangolins were uplisted into Appendix I. That represents the category of wildlife with the highest levels of protection. Wildlife law enforcement efforts aimed at stopping big pangolin scale traffickers became a priority after this reclassification.