The Nigeria Customs Service repatriated a rescued baby gorilla named Bili to the Republic of Congo in its first full-cycle international wildlife operation. The repatriation took place between September 22 and 28, 2026. Bili was rescued in August 2023 during an enforcement operation and rehabilitated at the Pandrillus Foundation in Calabar. DNA testing confirmed the gorilla was of Congolese origin, leading to the repatriation. The operation involved interception, rehabilitation, and return, with the Service's Special Wildlife Office working with international conservation partners.
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