Concerted efforts by SAPS Muswodi members to clamp down on the illegal trade of endangered species have led to the arrest of two male suspects found in possession of two live pangolins without the required permits.
On 14 August 2025, Muswodi police received a tip-off about a suspicious vehicle – a blue VW Polo with Gauteng registration plates – allegedly transporting protected species in the Masisi policing area. Acting swiftly, the members traced and intercepted the vehicle.
With the driver’s consent, a search was conducted, leading to the discovery of two live pangolins hidden inside the boot. Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects were allegedly seeking a buyer for the animals and could not produce the necessary permits for their possession.
The suspects, a 38-year-old man from Mpumalanga and a 34-year-old man from Vhembe District, were arrested and detained. They are expected to appear before the Musina Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 18 August 2025 to facing charges of possession of protected species without a permit.
The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, applauded the members of Muswodi SAPS for acting promptly on the information received.