The Northern Cape’s Provincial Organised Crime Investigation team, working alongside members of the Kimberley and Kuruman K9 Units as well as the Kuruman Crime Prevention Unit, has arrested three suspects linked to the illicit trade in endangered species.

This followed a tip-off from the public regarding Zimbabwean men in possession of a pangolin valued at about R750 000. It is believed they intended to sell the animal in Kuruman.

The three men, aged between 28 and 33 years old, were arrested for the contravention of the NEMBA Act 10 of 2004. The pangolin was rescued and taken to a veterinarian for examination.

Northern Cape Provincial Commissioner Koliswa Otola commended the members for ensuring those who contravene the National Environmental Management-Biodiversity Act are brought to book.

OFM News