Botswana national arrested after allegedly crossing into SA with live pangolin

A 27-year-old Botswana national has been arrested in South Africa after allegedly crossing the Limpopo River from Botswana with a live pangolin in his bag.

The man, identified by South African police as Tholego Gaebolae, was arrested near the Groblersbrug Border Post in Limpopo.

According to the SAPS, members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) spotted the suspect crossing the Limpopo River from Botswana into South Africa on Wednesday evening, 26 August.

The incident happened at about 19:30 while SANDF members were conducting routine patrols along the river.

Botswana man allegedly crossed Limpopo River

Police said the SANDF members confronted the man and asked him to produce his passport.

However, according to SAPS, he failed to provide one.

The members then searched his bag and allegedly discovered a live pangolin.

The animal is classified as a Specially Protected Wild Animal in South Africa.

Police said the Botswana national could not provide a satisfactory explanation regarding the origin of the pangolin or why he was in possession of the protected animal.

He was subsequently arrested and handed over to Tom Burke Border Policing.

Botswana national faces two charges

Gaebolae appeared before the Phalala Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 28 August 2026.

He faces charges relating to the possession of a Specially Protected Wild Animal and contravention of South Africa’s Immigration Act 13 of 2002.

The court remanded him in custody and postponed the matter to 17 September for a formal bail application.

Police investigations are continuing.

SAPS praises border patrol officers

Limpopo Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Jan Scheepers commended the SANDF and SAPS for their vigilance and cooperation.

According to police, the joint efforts helped protect South Africa’s borders while also assisting in the protection of endangered wildlife species.

The arrest comes as South African authorities continue to monitor illegal movement across the country’s borders and the trafficking of protected wildlife.

Gaebolae remains in custody pending his next court appearance, while investigations into the alleged possession and origin of the pangolin continue.