The animal, believed to be between 50 and 70 years old, was found chained to the ground without food or water. (Photo: Provided)
A manhunt for an illegal shebeen in Klerksdorp resulted in an unexpected rescue attempt on Thursday afternoon when the police came across a badly abused mountain tortoise.
The animal, believed to be between 50 and 70 years old, was found chained to the ground without food or water.
Capt. Elize van Schalkwyk, commander of the Klerksdorp unit for firearms, liquor and second-hand goods (FLASH), visited the premises in Wilkenstraat after following up on information about illegal liquor trade.
She arrested a 51-year-old man who is suspected of trading without a licence. During her inspection, she came across the defenseless reptile.
Capt. Majang Skalkie, police spokesperson, says the suspect was subsequently also charged for breaching section 2(1) of the Animal Protection Act.
“Nature conservation officers were immediately called to the scene after which the mountain tortoise was handed over to Kelly Meintjies, a field ranger from Nature Conservation, for care.”
The police warn that the law is very clear about the protection of native wildlife, and that the public may not simply keep these animals as pets.
“The public must realize that all native turtles are legally protected by the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, as well as by provincial ordinances.
Nature conservation officers were immediately called to the scene after which the mountain tortoise was handed over to Kelly Meintjies, a field ranger from Nature Conservation, for care. (Photo: Provided)
“It is completely illegal to buy or possess a mountain tortoise from an unregistered source. A permit cannot be applied for afterwards; express permission from the provincial conservation authority must be obtained in advance.”
Skalkie also warned against people trying to get rid of animals in custody by releasing them into the wild.
“People should not think they are doing the animal a favor by simply releasing it into the wild. These animals often struggle to survive in the wilderness, and can even transmit diseases to populations of wild animals.”
The police make a serious appeal to people who may be in illegal possession of a turtle to follow the right channels to avoid prosecution.
“If you are currently in possession of a turtle for which you do not have the necessary documentation, we request that you hand over the animal immediately.
“This is the only way to avoid heavy fines or prosecution. The animals can be handed in to the local SPCA or to an authorized wildlife rehabilitation centre.”
He also appeals to members of the public to share information about illegal possession of or trade in wild animals with the authorities.
“Anyone who is aware of people keeping or trading these animals illegally is urged to report them. Information can be passed directly to the Wildlife Crime Information Network via WhatsApp on 079 643 9556, or at the nearest police station.”
The suspect will appear in the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court on Monday.