Suspects with 2 pangolin skins arrested, Kimberley

South African Police Service

Suspects with 2 pangolin skins arrested, Kimberley
Suspects with 2 pangolin skins arrested, Kimberley

The Kimberley Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit (STESU) pounced on four male suspects in possession of two pangolin skins.

A week long clandestine operation led to four suspects being arrested through a successful buy and bust operation. On Sunday, 7 February 2021 at about 08:20, members of SAPS Kimberley STESU apprehended and arrested the men with two Pangolin skins, 4 canisters of mercury and 1 small diamond. Police also confiscated the white Opel Corsa as it was allegedly utilized in the commission of crime.

Pangolin is said to be the most widely trafficked mammal in the world. Its scales are in high demand in some countries for use in traditional Chinese medicine, despite there being no medical benefit for their use, while its meat is considered a delicacy in some countries.

The suspects are aged between 30 and 40 years and should be appearing in the Kimberley Magistrates’ court soon for illegal possession of pangolin skins and diamonds.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner, Maj Gen Henriette de Waal commended the Kimberley STESU members for a great job and also thanked the community for their assistance in this regard.

SAPS Newsroom

SOURCESouth African Police Service