Zimbabweans arrested at border with an elephant tusk and pangolin
Two Zimbabwean nationals were arrested after crossing into South Africa on a boat and were found in possession of a pangolin and an elephant tusk.
LIMPOPO – Two Zimbabwean nationals, aged 32 and 43-years-old are expected to appear before the Musina Magistrate’s Court today (November 21) on charges of possession of protected species following their arrest on Friday (November 18).
Police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said the duo were arrested in posession of a pangolin and an elephant tusk worth R1m along the Beitbridge Border Line.
“The suspects were arrested following a joint sting operation conducted by the Crime Intelligence Unit, Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit and the Beitbridge task team who were joined by members of the SANDF and Wildlife Centre. Members received information about individuals who were in possession of protected species and had just crossed into South Africa from Zimbabwe using a boat,” a statement read.
Ledwaba said the suspects were apprehended at midday along the western Beitbridge border line and that the pangolin and elephant tusk were found concealed inside the bags that they were carrying.
“Police investigations continue,” he said.
