Tshwane Police Rescue Smuggled Pangolin

Picture courtesy: (SAPS)

(The Post News)– Communication coordinator Warrant Officer Johan Van Dyk said on Friday, May 17, 2024, an intelligence-driven operation was executed by members of the Cullinan Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit, several SAPS units, and Gauteng Traffic Wardens.

“Information was received that a pangolin was being offered for sale in Cullinan on May 10. The Cullinan Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit launched an investigation to track and apprehend the suspects and rescue the smuggled pangolin,” Van Dyk said.

He added that during the ongoing investigation, it was established that a transaction would occur on Friday, May 17. An operational team was assembled and strategically positioned around the location of the transaction, covering all entrance and exit points with a tactical stopper group ready to pursue any person or vehicle attempting to escape.

Van Dyk said two vehicles arrived at the designated location, and the static team arrested three suspects in one of the vehicles.

The second vehicle, realising the arrests were taking place, sped off. A high-speed chase ensued in the direction of Mpumalanga. The tactical stopper group managed to apprehend the suspects and the vehicle attempting to flee.

“All five suspects were arrested, and two Toyota Corolla vehicles were seized and impounded. The rescued pangolin was taken to a wildlife sanctuary for safety and any necessary medical treatment. All the suspects will be charged under the National Environmental Management Act of 2004 and will appear in court on Monday,” Van Dyk added.

Brigadier Samuel Thine, the Acting District Commissioner of Tshwane, congratulated all members involved in rescuing the pangolin and bringing the culprits to justice.