A multi-disciplinary operation successfully recovered a pangolin and arrested three suspects in Trichardts Road, Boksburg on Sunday.

This is the third recovery made with the assistance of the Benoni Flying Squad (BFS) since 2018.

According to BFS spokesperson Warrant Officer Grant Giblin, a team consisting of members from BFS, the Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit in Germiston, CNI Domestic Drug Trafficking, IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC) and the Pangolin Specialist Group joined forces and shared information to arrange a specialised sting operation to recover and rescue a pangolin from a smuggling syndicate.

“Information was received that suspects were willing to sell the animal and ready to finalise an exchange,” said Giblin.

The meeting point was established and the sting was set in motion. A blue Volkswagen Polo with three occupants was identified as the vehicle, allegedly used to transport the animal.

“Upon arrival at the agreed location, officers and interested parties swooped into action arresting the suspects and retrieving the pangolin, which had been transported in a blue plastic bag,” said Giblin.

“The animal, in relatively good health, was immediately taken for a check-up and medical treatment by an environmental inspector on scene.”

Giblin revealed the sale of these engendered species could be between R85 000 and R100 000.

“Pangolins sold on the black market are usually destined for the Asian medicinal market where they are exposed to extreme cruelty,” he said.

“Possession and sale of these animals are a criminal offence. Environmental conservation organisations are working hand-in-hand with law enforcement units to bring smugglers to book.”