Two monkeys rescued from illegal trade at Vryburg auction
Two monkeys were rescued from an alleged illegal wildlife trade operation at an auction yard in Vryburg, North West, after quick action by members of the public, a wildlife rehabilitation volunteer and police on Friday morning.
According to police, the incident unfolded when a wildlife rehabilitation volunteer and farmers attending the auction noticed a couple allegedly attempting to sell two monkeys that had been tied up at the auction site.
Authorities were immediately alerted after concerns were raised about the illegal possession and sale of indigenous wildlife.
Warrant Officer Willem Erasmus of the Vryburg K9 Unit responded to the complaint and, together with the wildlife volunteer, secured the animals and apprehended the suspects at the scene.
“The suspects were subsequently fined for the illegal possession and attempted sale of indigenous wildlife.”
Police confirmed that the rescued monkeys were placed in safe care while arrangements are being made for their transfer to registered Nature Conservation rehabilitation authorities.
Acting North West Provincial Police Commissioner, Major General Dr Ryno Naidoo, praised the swift response and cooperation between the community and law enforcement.
He said that “this incident demonstrates the importance of collaboration between communities, conservation stakeholders and law enforcement agencies in protecting our wildlife heritage,” Naidoo said.
He added that “the swift response by Warrant Officer Erasmus and the vigilance shown by the wildlife volunteer are highly commendable”.
Naidoo further stressed that police remain committed to combating environmental and wildlife-related crimes.
“The police remain committed to enforcing laws aimed at protecting indigenous wildlife and urge members of the public to report all forms of wildlife crimes.”
He also encouraged communities to continue working closely with authorities in the fight against environmental crimes.
IOL News
