Nine suspects arrested for possession of a pangolin valued at R250 000
National Environment Management Act provides the protection of species and ecosystems that warrant protection.
Midrand police arrested nine suspects on May 19 on New Road, Midrand after they were found with a female pangolin weighing 0.9kg valued at R250 000.
According to Midrand police spokesperson Constable Eliot Mabulane, the suspects were arrested under the National Environmental Management, Biodiversity Act which restricts activities involving pangolins. He added an e-hailing driver was among the arrested suspects.
Midrand Police Station Commander Brigadier Molefi David Tsotsotso welcomed the arrests and said it would serve as a deterrence to those that were found to be on the wrong side of the law.
“We appreciate the informers who have tipped off the police of this crime. We urge more community members to come forth and register as informers where their identity won’t be revealed and stand to be rewarded [by giving] positive information,” concluded Tsotsotso.
Details: Residents can report crime on midrand.communication@saps.gov.za or 011 347 1600 and 079 877 6484.
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