Department:
Agriculture, Conservation, Environment
and Rural Development
North West Provincial Government
Republic of South Africa / AgriCentre Building
Cnr. Dr. James Moroka and Stadium Rd
Private Bag X2039,
Mmabatho 2735
Republic of South Africa
Tel: +27 (18) 389-5719 / 5768
Fax: +27(18) 384-4571
E-mail:
DIRECTORATE: COMMUNICATION
MEDIA RELEASE
Monday, 15th February 2010
Six suspects arrested and charged for illegal trade in leopard tortoises
The raid on illegal trade in leopard tortoises conducted by the “Green Scorpions” of the North West Department of Agriculture, Conservation, Environment and Rural Development in collaboration with the South African Police Service during the last two weeks in Rustenburg, resulted in the arrest of six illegal traders.
According to the “Green Scorpions”, these criminal activities were taking place on three intersections along the N4, Mosenthal, Hartebeestfontein and Bethanie. “The six arrested suspects were apparently selling one tortoise at a price between R250 and R700 depending on the size,” said the “Green Scorpions”.
Moreover, the “Green Scorpions” and the SAPS confiscated eleven (11) leopard tortoises and a trailer. “We commend those people who have heeded a call by MEC Boitumelo Tshwene to report any poaching activity,” expressed Mr. Tshepo Moremi, Chief Director for Environmental Services.
The department and SAPS urge the public not to buy any tortoise or any wild animal from anybody who does not have a permit issued by the department. Mr Moremi says the in accordance with the Biodiversity Act, it is a criminal offence for people to keep or sell wild animals without a permit that authorizes them to do so.
In August 2009, MEC Boitumelo Tshwene issued a stern warning to the poachers that the department would not be lenient to those in contravention with the law.
On a separate incident, two (2) people were arrested at the Museum in Mafikeng for allegedly selling leopard tortoises.
Poaching is the third illegal trade in the world after guns and drugs and continues to hamper the wildlife industry in the province and across the country.
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Issued by the Communication Services Directorate
Batho Pele -.Putting People First