Man sentenced to eight years in prison for pangolin theft

According to a press release by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Nyathi was arrested in Rietboklaagte near Acornhoek after the police received information that he was in possession of a pangolin.

Pangolins are the most heavily trafficked animals in the world, for both their scales, which are used in traditional medicine, and their meat, which is a high-end delicacy in China.

During the trial, Nyathi pleaded not guilty and denied the allegations made against him. Advocate Ansie Venter showed evidence of a pangolin that was found in a drum in a back room of the accused’s house that was apparently released after receiving treatment at a game reserve. He was found guilty as charged.

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In aggravation of sentence, the state argued that pangolins are facing extinction and therefore a lengthy jail term must be imposed.  The Regional Court Magistrate, Elmarie Theron took into consideration that the accused is a first-time offender and she sentenced him to eight years’ direct imprisonment.

In the statement the NPA said that it was satisfied with the sentence, as it sent out a message to society that any harm caused to endangered species will be dealt with harshly.

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