Two tons of pangolin scales and ivory from Africa were recently seized in Vietnam. According to local media reports, the container came from Nigeria.
According to The New York Times exactly 330 kg of ivory and 1.7 tons of pangolin scales were intercepted in Vietnam. Customs authorities found the illegally trafficked remains inside three wooden containers.
According to the local Hai Quan newspaper, the haul occurred at the customs control of the northern port city of Haiphong.
Pangolin scales are in high demand in Asia for use in traditional medicine, while pangolin meat is considered a delicacy in some parts. There are no actual medicinal benefits that the scales contain. Keratin is the protein found in pangolin scales which is the same protein found in human finger nails.
Pangolins are critically endangered mammals, as a result of the illegal wildlife trade.
Read: Tons of elephant ivory, pangolin scales seized in Singapore
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