A 28-year-old man was arrested on Friday, 12 June 2026, after 150 live venomous scorpions were discovered concealed in his luggage at Cape Town International Airport.

Intelligence-led operation

Western Cape Police spokesperson, Sgt Wesley Twigg says the arrest was the result of a joint intelligence-driven operation between the Kuilsriver Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit and Cape Nature. Acting on information received about a person allegedly in possession of scorpions at the airport, officers obtained a description of the suspect and apprehended him.

Scorpions found hidden in clothing

According to Twigg a search of the suspect’s luggage revealed 150 live scorpions concealed between his clothing. He was arrested under the Nature and Environmental Ordinance Act for being in possession of a wild animal. The monetary value of the scorpions is yet to be determined. The animals were transported to a haven for safekeeping.

Court appearance

The accused is due to appear in the Bellville Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 15 June 2026.

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