Section 7: Surveillance of importation

(1) If a veterinary officer, police officer or any authorised officer has reason to believe that there is in any premises, animal, animal product, biologic or infectious agent which has been imported into Nigeria in contravention of the provisions of this Act, he shall-
(a) within reasonable time enter, inspect the premises and examine any suspected animal, animal product, biologic or infectious agent therein;
(b) demand, from the owner or person in charge or in possession, for the evidence of permission to import such animal, animal product, biologic or infectious agent found on the premises;
(c) where he has reasonable ground to believe that such animal, animal product, biologic or infectious agent, has been imported without permit, seize or detain such animal at the risk and expense of the owner or importer for a period of not less than 24 hours, after which the animal, animal product, biologic or infectious agent shall be quarantined or penalty shall be imposed if no proof of permission to import can be produced.
(2) Any person who is guilty of any such breach, non-compliance or contravention under this section shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine of not less than N1,000 or imprisonment for three months or to both such fine and imprisonment.