Botswana Man Arrested for Smuggling Live Pangolin Across the Limpopo River

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

Offering additional details regarding the animal’s rescue, police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba mentioned: “On Wednesday, 26 August 2026, at around 19:30, SANDF members were performing routine patrols along the Limpopo River near the Groblersbrug Border Post when they noticed a male suspect crossing over from Botswana into South Africa.”

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

Colonel Ledwaba emphasized that the suspect, who illegally crossed the river without the necessary documentation, failed to provide a credible explanation regarding the source of the pangolin.

The SANDF members arrested the suspect and handed him over to the Tom Burke Border Police.

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

This national from Botswana is facing charges for the possession of Specially Protected Wild Animals and for violating the South African Immigration Act 13 of 2002.

Colonel Ledwaba confirmed that Gaebolae is still in custody, with a further court appearance scheduled for 17 September 2026 for a formal bail hearing and additional police inquiries.

A single pangolin can fetch up to R5 000 on the South African black market, with its scales selling for more than R51 000 per kilogram.

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

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