A sting operation saw 150 live venomous scorpions discovered in a man’s luggage at Cape Town International Airport.

• Police arrested a suspected wildlife trafficker after discovering 150 live scorpions in his luggage.
• The arrest followed a joint operation involving the SAPS Endangered Species Unit, CapeNature and the SPCA.
• Police say the scorpions were hidden among the man’s clothing.

A sting operation saw 150 live venomous scorpions discovered in a man’s luggage at Cape Town International Airport.

A 28-year-old man was arrested on Friday during the intelligence-driven operation involving the SAPS Kuils River Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit, the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, and Cape Nature.

Police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg said law enforcement officials acted on information that a passenger had scorpions at the airport.

After obtaining a description of the man, officers located and apprehended him.

Twigg said:

He was arrested under the Nature and Environmental Conservation Ordinance for the unlawful possession of wild animals.

Authorities have not yet determined the value of the scorpions, which were removed and placed in safe care.

The Cape of Good Hope SPCA confirmed the animals were currently being housed at a secure facility, while arrangements were made for their future care.

“We will continue to work closely with SAPS and Cape Nature to ensure these animals receive appropriate care and that arrangements are made for their repatriation to their place of origin, where possible,” the SPCA said in a statement.

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The animal welfare organisation condemned wildlife trafficking, describing it as a cruel and illegal trade that causes suffering to animals and threatens biodiversity.

“We commend the swift action of SAPS and Cape Nature in preventing these animals from disappearing into the illegal wildlife trade.”

The man is expected to appear in the Bellville Magistrate’s Court on Monday on charges related to the unlawful possession of wildlife.