June 14, 2026
South African authorities have arrested a 28-year-old man after discovering 150 live venomous scorpions concealed inside his luggage at Cape Town International Airport.
The suspect was apprehended on Friday following an intelligence-led operation involving members of the Kuilsriver Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit and conservation officials from Cape Nature.
According to police, officers acted on information that a man travelling through the airport was in possession of protected wildlife. A description of the suspect was circulated, leading to his swift identification and arrest.
Police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg said a search of the man’s bags uncovered dozens of live scorpions hidden among his clothing.
