Northern Cape man arrested for illegal possession of protected tortoise

A 58-YEAR-OLD Brandvlei man was arrested for allegedly possessing a protected tortoise without the required permit.

Acting on a tip-off, police located the suspect in Brandvlei on February 19, where he was found with the tortoise and subsequently charged under the Nature Conservation Act.

Tortoises are protected due to severe population declines driven by illegal pet trade, habitat destruction, and slow reproduction rates, making them vulnerable to extinction. As key components of biodiversity, they are shielded by environmental laws against poaching, veld fires, and urbanisation.

The reasons for their protection include:

• Illegal trade and poaching: Their unique shells are targeted for the lucrative international pet trade and souvenir markets
• Habitat loss: Urban development and wildfires have destroyed 90% of some species' natural habitats
• Slow reproduction and life cycle: Slow growth rates and late maturity hinder population recovery. Tortoises cannot quickly recover from population losses
• Ecological significance: Keystone species like the gopher tortoise burrows provide critical shelter for over 350 other species.
• Vulnerability: Tortoises face threats from being hit by vehicles and being kept improperly in captivity.

District commissioner Brigadier Schalk Andrews reminded the public that possessing protected wildlife without permits is a serious offence.

The public is urged to report such incidents to the nearest police station or contact the SAPS Crime Stop line on 08600 10111 or via the MySAPS app.