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Leonard Ncube, Victoria Falls Reporter
A HWANGE man who was caught with a live pangolin in the company of an accomplice, allegedly bit a police officer in the stomach in an attempt to free himself from arrest.
The brave police officer, Constable Alfred Mukandapi, however, allegedly subdued Panganai Siziba who had sunk teeth in his stomach, a court heard.
Siziba (37), of 315 Empumalanga in Hwange and accomplice Talkmore Luphahla (41) of Mambanje Village in Hwange District were not asked to plead to unlawful possession of a protected animal when they appeared before Hwange magistrate Mrs Portia Mhlanga-Moyo.
The duo was remanded in custody to 2 July and advised to approach the High Court for bail application.
Prosecuting, Mr Onias Nyathi said Siziba and Luphahla were cornered by an anti-poaching team comprising Border and Mineral Control Unit and rangers from Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority following a tip-off from members of the public.
“On 16 June, Mr Peter Chiza from Zimparks received a tip-off that the two accused were in possession of a live pangolin. A team proceeded to the truck stop and found the duo in a silver BMW car.
“Before the team could introduce itself, Siziba tried to start the car so he could drive off but failed. He opened the door in an attempt to escape but Cst Alfred Mukandapi held him back. The accused then bit Cst Mukandapi in the stomach,” said Mr Nyathi.
Luphahla also allegedly tried to flee but was also caught by Cst Trust Mudimba.
Upon searching, a live pangolin was recovered in a box that was on the back seat of the vehicle.
The duo was arrested after failing to produce a permit allowing then to possess a protected animal.
There was no mention in court if Cst Mukandapi was injured from the attack.
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