Photo: Credit Raghed Waked

NNA News - Authorities in South Africa and the United Arab Emirates have seized 373 live animals this week in two separate airport operations. Officials described the incidents as part of ongoing efforts to combat wildlife trafficking. The larger seizure occurred at Cape Town International Airport, where Western Cape officers arrested a 28-year-old man on Friday.

Following the arrest, the South African Police Service (SAPS) found 150 live scorpions in his luggage. “The arrest follows an intelligence-driven operation between the Kuilsriver Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit and CapeNature,” SAPS said in a statement released on Saturday. “Members were acting on information received about a person transporting scorpions through the airport."SAPS further explained that “a description of the suspect was obtained, and he was apprehended at Cape Town International Airport. Officers then searched his luggage bags and found 150 live scorpions concealed between his clothing."

Photo Credit: Cape of Good Hope SPCA

The scorpions were transferred to a secure facility for safekeeping, with their value still to be determined as investigations continue into their origin and intended destination, SAPS confirmed. Officials did not identify the scorpion species or disclose where the suspect was headed. The man faces charges under the Nature and Environmental Conservation Ordinance for possession of a wild animal and is due to appear in the Bellville Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 15 June. “He will face charges of having a wild animal without a permit,” SAPS added.

In a separate incident the following day, Dubai Customs reported that officers at Dubai International Airport discovered 223 live animals in an unclaimed suitcase during an operation on Thursday. “The suitcase contained 129 lizards, 36 scorpions, eight snakes and 50 frogs, bringing the total number of recovered animals to 223,” Dubai Customs stated in a statement released on Friday.

Inspectors flagged the bag after identifying risk indicators linked to unattended baggage, the agency added. Authorities further indicated that some of the animals may be protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

Photo Credit: Cape of Good Hope SPCA

Dubai Customs told state media in the Gulf country that it is working with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment to ensure the animals receive proper care while also ensuring compliance with all legal, veterinary and environmental procedures. Khalid Ahmed, director of passenger operations at Dubai Customs, told local media that the agency’s role now extends beyond traditional border security. “Protecting borders today is not just about stopping prohibited goods. It also means protecting biodiversity, natural resources and environmental sustainability from illegal wildlife trafficking,” Ahmed highlighted.

Officials in both countries stressed that it remains unclear whether the two seizures are linked, where the animals were ultimately headed, or who owned the suitcase in Dubai.