Live Pangolin Rescued and Two Suspects Arrested in Central Mozambique

On October 24, authorities based in Catandica (Barué District) launched an operation that led to the recovery of a live pangolin and the arrest of two Mozambican nationals attempting to illegally sell the animal in Mapanga Panga, a locality within Macossa District.

The pangolin, a species protected by national and international law, was being offered for sale at an exorbitant price when enforcement officers intervened.

During questioning, the first suspect stated he had been contacted by an unknown individual who instructed him to travel from Chimoio to Catandica to inspect a pangolin allegedly available for sale. Upon seeing the animal, he joined the second suspect with the intent of arranging a buyer.

The second individual claimed that the pangolin belonged to a citizen residing in Macossa, who had asked him to collect the animal in Pandira for later sale. Both suspects confirmed that their objective was to profit from the illegal transaction.

The pangolin was recovered in good health and handed over to the Official Coutada No. 9, where it will be reintegrated into its natural habitat. Legal proceedings are underway to ensure accountability for those involved.

While the animal was successfully rescued, this case once again reveals the hidden networks and informal brokers facilitating the illegal wildlife trade in Mozambique’s interior. Continued collaboration between local authorities and protected area managers remains essential to disrupting these chains and safeguarding endangered species.