The SAPS of Prince Albert and the Stock Theft Unit of Beaufort West arrested a 23-year-old suspect on 4 January 2019 for being in possession of wild animals without documentation in terms of section 42(1) a Ordinance no 19/1974.

Members received and followed information and his room at his overnight stay was searched. In his room they found 21 scorpions, two spiders and two other insects (oorkruipers) in his closet in plastic buckets/bags. All the animals were still alive.

He could not produce any documentation or proof for the possession thereof and was arrested. The animals were seized and handed over to Nature Conservation. He is still in custody and will appear in court in Prins Albert on Monday 7 January 2019. The street value of the animals were estimated at R16000-00 the exact amount will be determined by Nature Conservation on Monday 7 Januaryv2019.

Source: South African Police Service