In a swift law enforcement operation, Zimbabwean authorities have apprehended a group of individuals suspected of trafficking a protected pangolin species. The incident unfolded on June 14th, 2024, in the Murewa region.
Acting on credible intelligence, detectives from the Minerals, Flora and Fauna Unit descended upon the Mazianike turnoff, where they encountered seven suspects in possession of the endangered pangolin. The arrested individuals have been identified as Claud Matambo (22), Richard Dangarembwa (42), Tashinga Kwembeya (33), Tawanda Chitute (49), Milton Mcheka (30), Trovolta Hilary Tawanda Dzingai (38), and Munashe Chisasa (35).
In a carefully orchestrated sting operation, the detectives posed as potential buyers, allowing them to apprehend the suspects and seize the pangolin before it could be sold on the black market. Pangolins, small scaly mammals are protected under Zimbabwean law due to their dwindling global populations.
The swift action by the Minerals, Flora and Fauna Unit underscores the Zimbabwean government’s commitment to combating the illicit trade in endangered wildlife. The illegal poaching and trafficking of pangolins, considered the world’s most trafficked mammal, have had a devastating impact on their survival.
