Two arrested after python advertised online

Two siblings have been arrested in Delareyville, North West, following an intelligence-led operation targeting the illegal online trade in wildlife.

Tshepo Mojakgolo, 37, and his 22-year-old sibling, Lebogang Mojakgolo, were arrested after authorities recovered a live Southern African python allegedly advertised for sale on social media for R5,000.

The operation was conducted by the Sannieshof Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit (STESU), North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), and the Wildlife Crime Information Network (WCIN).

According to police, the operation followed information about the online advertisement offering the protected snake for sale.

The siblings face charges relating to the alleged possession of a protected wild animal without the required permits and conducting a restricted activity without the necessary authorisation.

They appeared briefly before the Delareyville Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 31 August 2026.

The pair was released on warning and is expected to return to court as the legal process continues.

Authorities have warned that the illegal trade in protected wildlife remains a serious offence and that online platforms are increasingly being monitored for the sale of protected animals.