On Sunday, 29 September 2024, a successful operation led to the arrest of two Botswana nationals involved in the illegal possession and trading in pangolin, which is an endangered species.

An all-encompassing law enforcement team led by the Johannesburg based Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation (SOCI), K9 Unit, Johannesburg Metro Police (JMPD), and Gauteng Traffic Police Special Law Enforcement unit (SLEU) operationalised intelligence received about an individual who was in possession of a pangolin. On arrival, officers located a silver VW Polo with Botswana registration plates. Inside the vehicle, a speaker box containing the pangolin was discovered. The operation was conducted at approximately 10:00 in the morning at a road lodge, located at the street corners of Grayston and Rivonia, in Sandton.

Further investigation led to the identification and arrest of two individuals, Rhine Morgan Kemsley (35) and Mothusi Malcom Lefa (49), both Botswana nationals. The suspects were taken into custody, and
the pangolin was safely handed over to a veterinary clinic in Midrand. The duo has been remanded in custody pending a bail application scheduled for Monday, 07 October 2024.

Meanwhile, the Acting Gauteng Provincial Head of the Hawks, Brigadier Phumeza Klaas, has sounded a warning to those who plunder protected species thereby contravening the National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act (NEMBA), Act 10 of 2004.

“The public is reminded that the possession and trading of protected species is a serious offense. Engaging in such activities not only endangers wildlife but also carries severe legal consequences. We urge the community to report any suspicious activities related to wildlife trafficking to the authorities immediately.” Brigadier Klaas stated.

Source: South African Police Service