Botswana Man Arrested for Smuggling Live Pangolin Across the Limpopo River

Polokwane – A patrol team from the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) apprehended a man trying to cross the Limpopo River from Botswana into South Africa, uncovering a live pangolin concealed in his bag during a routine inspection.

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

“Upon checking his bag, they discovered a live pangolin, which is classified as a Specially Protected Wild Animal.”

Colonel Ledwaba emphasized that the suspect, who illegally crossed the river without a passport, could not offer a credible explanation regarding the source of the pangolin.

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

The individual, recognized 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 possessing Specially Protected Wild Animals and violating the South African Immigration Act 13 of 2002.

Colonel Ledwaba confirmed that Gaebolae was held in custody, with his next court appearance scheduled for 17 September 2026 for a formal bail hearing and ongoing police inquiries.

A single pangolin can be valued at around R5 000 on the South African black market, while its scales may fetch over R51 000 per kilogram.

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

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