A 28-year-old man has been arrested after authorities discovered 150 live venomous scorpions concealed among his clothing at Cape Town International Airport.
The arrest followed an intelligence-driven operation conducted by the Kuilsriver Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit in collaboration with CapeNature.
Police said officials acted on information regarding an individual allegedly in possession of scorpions at the airport.
After obtaining a description of the suspect, police located and apprehended him. A search of his luggage led to the discovery of 150 live scorpions hidden between items of clothing.
The suspect was arrested on Friday, 12 June 2026, and charged under the Nature and Environmental Ordinance Act for the unlawful possession of wild animals. Police said the monetary value of the scorpions has not yet been determined.
The animals were removed from the airport and transported to a place of safety, where they are being kept under secure conditions.
The suspect is expected to appear in the Bellville Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 15 June 2026.
