In a surprising twist in Nchalo, Chikwawa, Malawi, local authorities have apprehended two men, Enasiyo Yembekeza and Patrick Jimu, for allegedly possessing a live pangolin.
This rare and protected creature was found hidden in a laptop bag, highlighting the lengths to which wildlife traffickers will go to conceal their illicit activities.
According to reports, Chikwawa Police spokesperson Dickson Matemba shared that vigilant community members at Jombo Trading Center had tipped off the authorities about the duo’s attempts to sell the pangolin.
Acting swiftly, the police managed to intercept Yembekeza and Jimu, leading to their arrest and the rescue of the pangolin.
“The suspects were caught red-handed, and the pangolin was safely retrieved,” Matemba reported. The men are set to face charges under section 110(b) of the National Parks and Wildlife Act, which deals with the illegal possession of listed species.
In a positive turn, the pangolin has been handed over to officials at the Majete Game Reserve, ensuring it will be returned to its natural habitat. This incident underscores the crucial role of community vigilance in protecting endangered wildlife and the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat illegal wildlife trade.
