Pangolins are one of the world’s most endangered animals, as they have been hunted to near-extinction for their scales and flesh. Three suspects were arrested for being in possession of pangolin body parts in Bellville, Cape Town earlier this week.
According to South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson Noloyiso Rwexana, they had received a tip-off that there was a vehicle transporting the body from Gauteng to Bellville.
Members of the Flying Squad responded to the tip-off, and intercepted the vehicle. It was pulled over on Durban Road in Bellville.
“Upon searching the vehicle, the police discovered a large amount of pangolin body parts valued at an estimated R65 500. Three men – aged 42, 47 and 57 – were arrested and are expected to appear in the Bellville Magistrate’s Court soon,” said Rwexana in a statement.
Source: Pixabay