Arrests in Botswana for Smuggling Live Pangolins Across the Limpopo River

Polokwane – A unit from the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has apprehended an individual attempting to cross the Limpopo River from Botswana into South Africa. During a standard inspection, officials discovered a live pangolin concealed in his luggage.

In a statement concerning the rescue of the animal, police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba remarked: “On Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at approximately 19:30, SANDF personnel were conducting their regular patrols along the Limpopo River near the Groblersbrug Border Post when they noticed a male suspect arriving from Botswana.”

“Upon inspection of his belongings, authorities found a live pangolin, a species classified as a Specially Protected Wild Animal.”

Colonel Ledwaba emphasized that the suspect, who had illegally crossed the river without proper documentation, was unable to provide a valid explanation for possessing the pangolin.

The SANDF officers detained the suspect and handed him over to the Tom Burke Border Police.

The 27-year-old suspect, Tholego Gaebolae, appeared at the Phalala Magistrate’s Court on Friday, August 28, 2026.

This individual from Botswana now faces charges related to the possession of Specially Protected Wild Animals and violations of the South African Immigration Act 13 of 2002.

Colonel Ledwaba confirmed that Gaebolae remains in custody, with a subsequent court date scheduled for September 17, 2026, to address bail and the ongoing police investigation.

In South Africa, the illegal market value of a pangolin can soar to R5,000, while its scales can fetch upwards of R51,000 per kilogram.

Pangolin meat is considered a delicacy, and its scales are often used in traditional medicine.

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