Breaking! Another 12.7 Tons Of Hidden Pangolin Scales Seized In Singapore; Marks 2nd Seizure Within 5 Days

National Parks Board (NParks), Singapore Customs and Immigration and Checkpoints Authority have seized another 12.7 tons of pangolin scales; bringing the total recovered in five days to 25.6 tons.

As previously reported by WAN, on April 3^rd 12.9 tons of pangolin scales that were hidden in 230 bags of frozen beef were also recovered. The pangolin scales are reportedly worth an estimated US $38.7 million.

The most recent seizure occurred on April 8^th after officials inspected a 40-foot container that was declared to have contained Cassia Seeds. The 12.7 tons of pangolin scales, packed in 474 bags, are worth approximately US $38.1 million.

As per a statement released by the customs department, both shipments were heading to Vietnam from Nigeria.

Singapore is a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and is committed to international effort to curb illegal wildlife trade. Elephants and pangolins are protected species under CITES. International trade in elephant ivory and pangolin is prohibited.

Under the Endangered Species (Import & Export) Act, the maximum penalty for illegal import, export and re-export of wildlife is a fine of up to $500,000 and or two  years’ imprisonment. The same penalties apply to transit or transshipment of illegal wildlife species, including their parts and derivatives.

The Singapore Government adopts a zero-tolerance stance on the use of Singapore as a conduit to smuggle endangered species and their parts and derivatives.