Botswana Man Arrested for Smuggling Live Pangolin Across Limpopo River

Polokwane – A unit of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) apprehended an individual attempting to cross the Limpopo River from Botswana into South Africa. During a routine inspection, they found a live pangolin concealed in his bag.

In further detailing the animal’s rescue, police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba commented: “On Wednesday, August 26, 2026, around 19:30, SANDF personnel were performing standard patrols along the Limpopo River near the Groblersbrug Border Post when they noticed a male suspect crossing from Botswana into South Africa.”

“Upon examining his bag, officials uncovered a live pangolin, which is classified as a Specially Protected Wild Animal.”

Colonel Ledwaba emphasized that the suspect, who crossed the river unlawfully without the necessary documents, failed to provide a convincing account of the pangolin’s origin.

The SANDF personnel arrested the suspect and transferred him to the Tom Burke Border Police.

The individual, identified as Tholego Gaebolae, 27, subsequently appeared in the Phalala Magistrate’s Court on Friday, August 28, 2026.

This national from Botswana is now facing charges for possessing Specially Protected Wild Animals, as well as violating the South African Immigration Act 13 of 2002.

Colonel Ledwaba confirmed that Gaebolae remains in custody, with a follow-up court appearance scheduled for September 17, 2026, for a formal bail hearing and additional police investigations.

A single pangolin can reach prices of up to R5,000 on the South African black market, with its scales fetching over R51,000 per kilogram.

Pangolin meat is considered a delicacy, while its scales are utilized in traditional medicine.

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