Two suspects have been arrested following a joint operation targeting wildlife trafficking in Polokwane.
The suspects, Obed Makoena (36) and Thabang Kgaphola (34), were arrested near Makro Polokwane after authorities discovered 14 protected tortoises in their vehicle without the required permits.
The arrests were carried out on 04 March 2026 through a coordinated operation involving the Provincial and Polokwane Stock Theft and Endangered Species (STES) Unit, the Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism and the Limpopo Pangolin Collective.
The operation forms part of ongoing efforts to combat wildlife trafficking and the illegal possession of protected species in the province.
The suspects appeared before the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 11 March 2026.
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