Smuggler caught trafficking ‘150 venomous scorpions’ at airport

150 individually wrapped scorpions discovered by customs (Picture: South African Police)

There was a sting in the tail for one would-be smuggler who was caught trying to sneak 150 live scorpions out of South Africa.

A 28-year-old man was arrested after an intelligence operation circulated his description before he was intercepted by officers at Cape Town International Airport on Friday.

His luggage was searched and 150 ‘live and venomous scorpions’ were discovered stashed between his folded clothes.

He was arrested under the Nature and Environmental Ordinance Act, after allegedly being in possession of a wild animal.

Police said the value of the scorpions is yet to be determined.