LIMPOPO – Police spokesperson Constable Maphure Manamela says ongoing operations targeting illegal hunting of protected species has yeilded positive results in a concerted effort to fight against illegal hunting of protected species.

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This follows the arrest of two suspects on Thursday 11 January, in Masisi in the Thohoyandou Cluster, for possession of a Pangolin through a tip off.

“The Provincial Endangered Species Unit managed to follow-up on information, which led them to Gumbu village where two male suspects were found in possession of a Pangolin, attempting to sell it. The duo was immediately apprehended and the endangered species safely handed to the nature conservation unit,” Manamela explained.

She goes on further to say that saps hope the arrest of these criminals should send clear message to other criminals who are still brainstorming to commit similar crimes that there will not succeed.

“We hope that this achievement will give relief to all the affected communties, especially farming communities,” she said.

The two suspects, aged 42 and 37-years-old, will appear before the Thohoyandou Magistrate’s Court soon on possession of endangered species.

raeesak@nmgroup.co.za