They are expected to appear again in the Delareyville Magistrates’ Court in North West on charges of contravening the Wildlife Act. This follows the attempted sale for R5,000 on a private social media platform.

North West police spokesperson Col. Anne Magakoe said the siblings, Tshepo, 37, and Lebogang Mojakgolo, 22, were arrested on Friday (28/8).

The operation followed information about a person who allegedly advertised a live Southern African python for sale on social media.

It was carried out in collaboration with the Sannieshof stock theft and endangered species unit, the North West department of economic development, environment, conservation and tourism (Dedect), and the Wildlife Crime Information Network.

Once the information was verified and shared, the alleged seller was traced to Delareyville. “Two suspects were subsequently found in town, and one of them was carrying a blue bag. A search of the bag led to the discovery and recovery of the live Southern African python.” 

A search of the bag led to the discovery and recovery of the live Southern African python. Photo supplied

The two suspects were arrested for allegedly having a protected wild animal in their possession without the required permits and conducting restricted activity without the necessary authorisation.

The recovery comes amid concerns over wildlife crime in the province. Dedect said in May it had identified increasing incidents of pangolin poaching and illegal trade in the Ngaka Modiri Molema and Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati districts. 

The arrests highlight ongoing efforts by authorities to combat the illegal trade in protected wildlife in the province.

The two suspects appeared briefly in the Delareyville Magistrates’ Court on Monday (31/8) and were released on warning. 

Provincial commissioner of North West Lt. Gen. Arthur Adams said the police continue to work closely with other law enforcement agencies and stakeholders to combat wildlife crime.

“Members of the community are encouraged to report suspicious activities involving the illegal possession, transportation, or sale of protected wildlife to the police.”

OFM News/Siyakholwa Mbatyazwa cvs

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