On July 3, two individuals were apprehended in Tibati, Djerem Division in Adamawa region while allegedly attempting to sell scales from giant pangolins, a species under severe threat due to illegal poaching and trafficking activities.
The suspects were caught red-handed as they arrived at a transaction site on a motorcycle, with two large bags filled with the contraband concealed between them. Both the motorcycle and the seized scales were confiscated during the operation.
The crackdown was executed by wildlife officials from the Djerem Divisional Delegation of Forestry and Wildlife, in partnership with the Gendarmerie Company of Tibati. Authorities discovered the illegal goods hidden within cardboard boxes inside the grain bags near a bus station, yielding nearly 90 kilograms of pangolin scales approximately the equivalent of 35 pangolins killed.
One of the traffickers reportedly operates as a bushmeat dealer, while the other is a mechanic, both of whom are believed to have connections with local poachers who gather scales from surrounding villages.
Sources familiar with the investigation, who requested anonymity, indicated that the suspects had plans to expand their operation beyond Tibati, with destinations including Ngaoundere. They are currently held at Tibati prison as legal proceedings continue.
Despite recent reports from organizations, including the Wildlife Justice Commission, suggesting a decline in pangolin trafficking, experts caution that illegal activities are still prevalent, albeit at reduced levels. Tah Kaba Eric, Deputy Director of the Last Great Ape Organisation (LAGA), emphasized the significance of ongoing efforts to combat the illicit trade in pangolin scales, stating,
“We may be witnessing some positive outcomes in our fight for the species' survival. However, the reduction in the intensity of trade might merely reflect a shift to more clandestine operations, making enforcement more challenging.”
The illegal trade and poaching of pangolins continue to pose the most significant threat to the survival of this species. In response to this ongoing crisis, the government is intensifying its punitive measures through the 2024 wildlife law, which imposes severe penalties on individuals found trafficking pangolin scales. Under the new legislation, possession of pangolin scales is treated as prima facie evidence of poaching, carrying fines between 20 to 50 million francs and potential prison sentences ranging from 15 to 20 years. As a fully protected species, the giant pangolin faces critical conservation challenges that require urgent attention and action.
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