Monkeys saved at auction in Vryburg

(Photo: SAPS North West)

Two monkeys that were believed to be sold illegally at an auction in Vryburg in the North West were rescued by the police and a volunteer attached to a wildlife rehabilitation centre.

Maj. Gen. Ryno Naidoo, acting provincial police commissioner in North West, welcomed the rescue of the two monkeys on Friday morning, 8 May 2026.

According to information, the volunteer and farmers who attended the auction informed authorities that a couple was trying to sell two tied monkeys at a local auction site.

Ao. Willem Erasmus of the Vryburg dog unit responded to the complaint. He worked with the volunteer to bring the animals to safety and apprehend the suspects.

Willem “Rassie” Erasmus (Photo: SAPS North West)

The suspects were subsequently fined for the illegal possession of native wildlife and attempting to sell it.

The two monkeys have meanwhile been placed in safe care pending their transfer to the relevant nature conservation authorities at a registered rehabilitation centre.

Naidoo praised the community member and Erasmus for their swift action. He says the incident once again shows how important cooperation between communities, conservation actors and law enforcement agencies is to protect South Africa’s wildlife.

He says the police remain committed to enforcing legislation that protects native wildlife, and has encouraged members of the public to report all forms of wildlife crime.

Naidoo also asked communities to work closely with law enforcement authorities to crack down on environmental and wildlife-related crimes.