Tom Burke police in Lephalale, Limpopo have on Friday arrested a foreign national in possession a pangolin .
Limpopo Provincial Police spokesman Brigadier, Motlafela Mojapelo confirmed the suspect aged 35, will appear in the Phalala Magistrates ‘Court on Monday, charged with possession of endangered species.
“Police received information regarding a man selling live pangolin in the Swartwater area. Members of the Endangered Species’ police unit were activated, and after tracing the information provided, they successfully arrested the suspect and confiscated the pangolin,” said Brigadier Mojapelo.
Meanwhile, Emmanuel Mlampo (28) found selling a pangolin in Mokopane Central Business District on February 12 had on Thursday pleaded guilty to a charge and was sentenced to six years in prison without an option of a fine.
The case against his co-accused, Ronald Nelushi (41), was transferred to Mahwelereng District Court for trial.
Limpopo Provincial Acting Commissioner Major General Jan Scheepers praised the work of the Endangered Species’ police unit.
Major General Scheepers said: “We also thank members of the community for providing valuable information to ensure that the culprits are convicted.”
