The Hawks Wildlife Trafficking team arrested six suspects for the possession and dealing in pangolins during a sting operation on 3 March.
Hawks spokesperson Captain Lloyd Ramovha said the multidisciplinary sting operation was conducted with Pangolin Africa, attached to the University of Pretoria, and Midrand police. The suspects were arrested at Kyalami Corner.
He added, “The unsuspecting syndicate, [with suspects] aged between 30 and 43, was pounced upon when they were in the process of looking for a buyer of one of the most protected and vulnerable species.
“Various exhibits were seized from the suspects for further investigation. These included a Toyota Fortuner, a Mini Cooper, cell phones and a live pangolin.
He said the suspects were still being processed and charges of dealing and possession of pangolins in contravention of the National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act would be brought against them.
Ramovha explained that the act aimed to provide the framework, norms, and standards for the conservation, sustainable use, and equitable benefit-sharing of South Africa’s biological resources. “It is against this backdrop that the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation strives to address these kind of offences.”
The suspects will appear in the Midrand Magistrates’ Court on 5 March.
Details:www.saps.gov.za
