Two pangolins were rescued alive from the hands of sophisticated smugglers, at Waterfall Mall, in Rustenberg, on Wednesday.
The Pangolins were found inside a vehicle during an intelligence-driven operation.
Police said the vehicle was also found displaying false registration plates and had to therefore, be seized for further investigation.
Four suspects were arrested for this, aged between 38 and 51.
Police also said Crime Intelligence received information about a group allegedly involved in the illegal trade of endangered species.
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DAFF) was called to the scene, and the two pangolins were safely rescued.
The suspects were reportedly planning to sell each female pangolin for an estimated R500,000.
A multidisciplinary team comprising SAPS Crime Intelligence, the Ivory Park Task Team, Phokeng K9, Rustenburg TRT and Safeguard Risk Services intercepted a white BMW at the mall.
The four suspects are expected to appear before the Rustenburg Magistrate’s Court on Friday.
Lieutenant General Arthur Peter Adams, North West Provincial Commissioner, commended the teams involved for their collaboration and the successful rescue operation.
Picture: Supplied