HANOI, Dec 24 (Reuters) - Vietnamese authorities have seized
more than two tonnes of pangolin scales and ivory from Africa,
state media reported on Tuesday.
Trade in ivory and pangolin is illegal in Vietnam but
wildlife trafficking remains widespread.
Customs authorities in the northern port city of Haiphong
found 330 kg of ivory and 1.7 tonnes of pangolin scales hidden
in three containers of wood this month, the Customs Department's
Hai Quan newspaper reported.
The containers came from Nigeria, the newspaper said.
Pangolins, known as scaly anteaters, are critically
endangered.
Some Vietnamese people believe that their ground scales have
health benefits but scientists say the scales are made of
keratin, the same substance that fingernails are made of, and do
nothing for health.