Man arrested at Cape Town airport for smuggling 150 scorpions

On Friday, June 12, 2026, South African authorities arrested a 28-year-old man at Cape Town International Airport for attempting to smuggle 150 live scorpions. The arrest followed an intelligence-led operation involving the Kuilsriver Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit and Cape Nature. The suspect had hidden the scorpions among his personal clothing inside his luggage. He faces charges under the Nature and Environmental Conservation Ordinance for the illegal possession of wildlife. The scorpions were recovered alive and subsequently transferred to a wildlife sanctuary. Authorities are currently assessing the market value of the seized animals. The suspect is scheduled to appear in court on Monday to face the charges. Illegal wildlife trade remains a significant challenge for South Africa due to its extensive biodiversity.