The incidents resulted in the arrest of a 30-year-old suspect in Reitz and a R3,000 fine being issued to another individual in Clarens. An integrated team comprising police, the Wildlife Crime Information Network (WCIN) and Cross-Border Investigations & Anti-Poaching Operations in the Free State shared intelligence relating to the alleged illegal online trade of wildlife through social media platforms.

The intelligence reportedly led to the arrest of the suspect in Reitz and the rescue of a leopard tortoise.

“Information was received regarding a person who allegedly advertised a leopard tortoise for sale on a social media platform, Facebook Market. Following the intelligence received, the suspect was traced to his workplace in Reitz. 

“He subsequently accompanied officials to his residence, where the leopard tortoise was found and rescued before it could allegedly be sold,” said Free State police spokesperson Lt Col Thabo Covane.

The suspect was reportedly arrested for allegedly being in possession of a protected wild animal without the required permits and for carrying out a restricted activity without the necessary authorisation.

The offences are in contravention of Section 57(1) of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004), as well as provisions relating to the possession of protected species.

A suspect was arrested for the unlawful sale of a wild animal. Photo: SAPS

The integrated team also shared information that resulted in the rescue of a jackal pup in Clarens, Covane said. The animal had allegedly been kept in a house and advertised for sale online. 

A 19-year-old man found in possession of the jackal pup was issued with a R3,000 fine in terms of the Free State Nature Conservation Ordinance 8 of 1969, Section 40(1)(c).

Covane said the cases highlight growing concerns around the alleged illegal online trade in wildlife and demonstrate the importance of intelligence sharing and cooperation between law enforcement agencies, conservation authorities and wildlife crime organisations.

Members of the public have subsequently been urged to familiarise themselves with the laws governing the possession, transport and trade of wildlife.

Covane reminded the public that it is illegal to collect, possess, transport or keep wild animals without the required permits or authorisation from the relevant provincial nature conservation authorities.

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