The Benoni Flying Squad (BFS) spokesperson, WO Grant Giblin, last week issued a stern warning to perpetrators of animal abuse after another pangolin was found in a bag.
The BFS, in a joint operation with National Crime Intelligence, rescued the pangolin and arrested four suspects for the illegal possession thereof on October 23 in Kempton Park.
“We recovered a pangolin at Irene Mall on August 5 and arrested a suspect,” Giblin said.
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“On October 23, at around 2.30pm, BFS members WO Gustav Myburgh, WO Francois Jansen and Sgt Wessel Brits, along with National Crime Intelligence members, rescued another pangolin at Oakmoor Railway Station in Glen Marais.”
The four suspects were in a blue Mitsubishi Colt Clubcab and the pangolin was stuffed in a backpack.
“It is alleged the suspects were trying to sell the animal for R150 000,” said Giblin.
“It is unknown how much time the animal spent in the bag without food, water and free movement.”
The pangolin was inspected by a veterinary surgeon and handed over to a member of the Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital where it will receive further medical attention.
According to Giblin, the Animal Protection Act of 1962 covers domestic animals, birds, wild animals and reptiles that are in captivity or under the control of humans.
“Therefore it is a crime for anyone to abuse animals. Animal cruelty is a schedule one criminal offence and has set penalties upon conviction.”
Such penalties may include imprisonment and/or a fine as contemplated by the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962.
Members of the community are encouraged to report any animal cruelty to the police or nearest SPCA.
The Benoni SPCA can be contacted on 011 894 2814/5.
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