Green Scorpions nab animal traffickers after confiscating PostNet parcel

Posted by David Henning on 17 February 2023

A PostNet parcel containing Singazer lizards, a snouted cobra as well as a girdled lizard and two skinks have been confiscated by the  Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment’s Environmental (DFFE) Management Inspectors, more commonly known as the Green Scorpions.

The parcel of reptiles was en route from Gauteng to KwaZulu-Natal and was seized on 8 February. Two men have been arrested on charges of the illegal possession, transport and illegal trade in species listed in terms of the Threatened or Protected Species (TOPS) Regulations under the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act.

Following the suspect’s arrest at the Pretoria PostNet branch, the Green Scorpions’ searched their homes with the SAPS K9 unit.

‘A total of 19 reptiles and amphibians were seized during the searches. These included African bullfrogs and an African rock python, which are listed on the threatened or protected species list,’ DFFE commented. ‘The reptiles found on the premises are listed in terms of the Gauteng Provincial Nature Conservation Ordinance.’

The accused, Barend (Johan) Coetzee (28) and Xander Aylward (19), appeared in the Cullinan District Court on 10 February 2023. The men have been released on bail and the matter has been postponed to 30 March 2023 for further investigation.

The department applauds members of the public who assist in reporting any suspicious activity that could be linked to wildlife crime and can report it by calling 0800 205 205.

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