derick.khumalo
Sikhumbuzo Moyo
[email protected]
THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting endangered wildlife species following the successful prosecution of several individuals involved in the illegal trade of pangolin scales in Bulawayo.
In the latest case, detectives from the Criminal Investigations Department Minerals, Flora and Fauna Unit (CID MFFU) arrested Thandoyenkosi Ndlovu (28) and Thandile Sibanda (23) after receiving information that the pair was offering pangolin scales for sale.
“The detectives tracked the suspects to Khami, Bulawayo, where they recovered 20 pangolin scales from their possession. The duo failed to produce permits authorising them to possess the specially protected wildlife trophies,” Criminal Investigations Department national spokesperson Detective Inspector Rachel Muteweri.
She said the pair was charged with contravening Section 45(1)(b), as read with Section 128(b), of the Parks and Wildlife Act [Chapter 20:14].
“On July 8, Ndlovu pleaded guilty and was sentenced to an effective nine years in prison. His alleged accomplice, Sibanda, pleaded not guilty and was remanded in custody pending trial,” said Det Insp Muteweri.
She said in a separate but related case, Thokozile Dube (58) and Phanteng Dube (64), both of Nketa, Bulawayo, were convicted and sentenced to five years’ imprisonment by Bulawayo Regional Magistrate Mr Manuwere for trading in pangolin scales.
The pair had been arrested by CID MFFU detectives on April 15 after being found in possession of pangolin scales.
“Investigations established that Thokozile Dube, an employee at a trophy-processing company, had stolen a pangolin trophy before teaming up with Phanteng Dube to offer 32 pangolin scales for sale,” she said.
Det Insp Muteweri said pangolins are among Zimbabwe’s specially protected and endangered species and play a critical role in maintaining ecological balance and preserving biodiversity.
She urged members of the public to report wildlife crimes and warned that offenders would face the full force of the law as authorities intensify efforts to combat illegal wildlife trafficking.
