The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), in a massive multi-agency effort, has successfully spearheaded a high-impact, cross-border operation along the South Africa-Namibia border at Vioolsdrift!
Working alongside SAPS, SANParks, the Border Management Authority, and Northern Cape provincial authorities, our law enforcement teams stepped up to defend Mzansi’s most vulnerable natural treasures.
🌿 Key Target Species Protected:
• Button Plants (Conophytum) & Elephant’s Foot (Dioscorea elephantipes): Rare succulents targeted by illegal international ornamental syndicates.
• Armadillo Girdled Lizards (Ouroborus cataphractus): Targeted for the high-profit exotic pet trade.
• Tortoises & Geckos: Poached for illegal pet trade and traditional medicine markets.
Several cases have been registered for illegal possession of endangered species, unlawful plant harvesting, and permit non-compliance!
👏 Hats Off to the Green Scorpions! and partner agencies for standing on the frontlines to defend South Africa’s rich biodiversity.
#GreenScorpions #DFFE #AntiPoaching
