Two women, including a police administration clerk, and a minor have been arrested for contravening the National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act after attempting to sell stolen lion cubs for R100 000 each in Bothaville.

Elias Moloi (36) and police administration clerk Mokete Elizabeth Dikoko (51), who is attached to the Bothaville police, appeared in the Bothaville Magistrates’ Court on 7 April for alleged contravention of the act.

They were arrested alongside a 14-year-old minor on 2 April whilst attempting to sell four lion cubs.

The arrests followed information received by the Hawks in Welkom about individuals selling lion cubs illegally.

A comprehensive police operation was arranged.

During the operation, four lion cubs were recovered and returned to their lawful owner in Viljoenskroon, where they had been taken from.

Dikoko has been released on bail, but faces additional consequences as she is being subjected to internal police disciplinary processes related to her alleged involvement in the illegal wildlife trade.

Both suspects are facing potential significant penalties under the biodiversity legislation.

The matter concerning the minor child has been referred to the Department of Social Development.