Polokwane – A South African National Defence Force (SANDF) patrol intercepted a man crossing the Limpopo River from Botswana into South Africa and discovered a live pangolin hidden inside his bag during a search.
Narrating events leading to the rescue of the endangered species, police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said: “On Wednesday, 26 August 2026, at about 19:30, members of SANDF were conducting routine patrol duties along the Limpopo River, next to the Groblersbrug Border Post, when they spotted a male suspect crossing the river from Botswana into South Africa.
“Upon searching his bag, they discovered a live pangolin classified as a Specially Protected Wild Animal.”
Colonel Ledwaba said the man, who had unlawfully crossed the river into South Africa without a passport, also failed to provide a satisfactory explanation about the origin of the pangolin.
SANDF members apprehended the man and handed him over to the Tom Burke Border police.
The suspect was identified as 27-year-old Tholego Gaebolae when he appeared before the Phalala Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 28 August 2026.
The Botswana national faces charges of possession of Specially Protected Wild Animals and Contravention of the SA Immigration Act 13 of 2002.
Colonel Ledwaba said the Motswana was remanded in custody, and his case was postponed to 17 September 2026 for a formal bail application and further police investigations.
A single pangolin on the South African black market can fetch about R5 000 at the poacher level, while pangolin scales may sell for over R51 000 per kilogram.
The meat is considered a delicacy and the scales are also used in traditional medicines.
