Hawks arrest two suspects found in possession of a lion’s head

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Two suspects aged between 62 and 54 that were arrested on Thursday after being found in possession of a lion’s head are set to spend a weekend in police custody.

In contravention of the National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act 10 of 2004 (NEMBA), the two suspects were arrested by the Mahikeng based Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation team together with Leruhutshe K9, Zeerust Stock Theft Unit as well as members from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.

Police Spokesperson in the area Lieutenant Colonel Philani Nkwalase said that this was during a sting operation in response to the tipoff they received about the said criminal act.

“Preliminary investigation by the Hawks revealed that the duo were traveling from Thembisa in Johannesburg looking for a traditional healer to sell the lions head for R350 000. A police agent intercepted the sale by arranging a traditional healer and the suspects were arrested at Shell garage in Zeerust.”

“The animal’s head found wrapped with refuge bags inside a vehicle was seized for further investigation.”

Nkwalase added that the duo is expected to appear in the Zeerust Magistrates’ Court on Monday.