Man arrested for possessing live pangolin in Chikwawa
Police in Chikwawa district have apprehended George Nkuzi, aged 48, on allegations of possessing a live pangolin without a permit from the Wildlife Department.
According to Sergeant Dickson Matemba, the district’s police publicist, officers from Mbewe police unit received a tip-off yesterday indicating that Nkuzi was housing a live pangolin in his residence.
“In response to the tip-off, law enforcement officers accompanied by parks and wildlife officials from Lengwe National Park conducted a raid at the suspect’s house and subsequently arrested him,” Sergeant Matemba stated.
The confiscated pangolin is currently under the care of parks and wildlife authorities for safekeeping. Meanwhile, investigations are ongoing, and Nkuzi is expected to appear in court once they are completed.
George Nkuzi originates from Laini Village under Traditional Authority Lundu in Chikwawa district.
The arrest underscores ongoing efforts by authorities to combat wildlife crime, particularly the illegal possession and trafficking of endangered species like pangolins. These efforts aim to uphold wildlife conservation laws and protect vulnerable species from exploitation.
