The Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW)’s Rapid Response Unit has apprehended five (05) suspects for illegal possession of pangolin scales and a pistol in Monze, Southern Province.

The suspects namely; Rogers Hamunjala, 55, from Gwembe, Clever Masuku, 59, a farmer of Monze, Edward Busiku, 57, a farmer of Monze, Paul Hamacha, 61, farmer of Monze and Chrispine Halwimbi, 62, also a farmer from Monze.

They had a contraband of pangolin scales weighing two kilogrammes, a pistol and four live ammos concealed in a laptop bag.

Upon noticing the presence of DNPW officers the suspects attempted to open fire on the Wildlife Police Officers who were on high alert and managed to overpower the distrusts after grabbing the gun.

The five are still detained at Monze Police Station and will appear in court soon.

Pangolins are trafficked mainly for their scales, which are believed to treat a variety of health conditions in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), while in Africa, pangolins are sold as a form of bushmeat, for ritual or spiritual purposes.