Decades-Old Leopard Tortoise Rescued by SAPS Captain Elize

Photo Credit: South African Police Service

Every wild life rescued from cruelty is a win – educating communities about protected species and the consequences of keeping them as pets is important.

North West, South Africa (26 May 2026) – A leopard tortoise believed to be between 50 and 70 years old has been rescued in Klerksdorp, thanks to a compassionate, well-informed police captain who knows the importance of protecting wildlife.

Captain Elize van Schalkwyk, Commander of the Klerksdorp FLASH Unit, was inspecting a property on Thursday last week, when she found the tortoise chained to the ground with no food or water.

A 51-year-old suspect was arrested on an unrelated liquor charge, and additional charges under the Animal Protection Act followed once the tortoise was discovered.

Nature conservation officials were called immediately, and the tortoise was handed over to field officer Kelly Meintjies shortly after its rescue.

Many people don’t realise that owning a leopard tortoise – or in fact any other tortoise species – without the right authorisation is a criminal offence in South Africa as they are all legally protected.

SAPS reminds the public that even releasing a captive tortoise into the wild is prohibited, too. A tortoise raised in captivity may struggle to survive, and it can carry diseases that wild populations have no resistance to, which is potentially devastating local communities of tortoises.

“Members of the public who may be in possession of an unauthorized tortoise are urged to surrender it immediately to avoid fines or prosecution. The safest drop-off points are the local #NSPCA or an authorised wildlife rehabilitation centre.” shares the SAPS.

The leopard tortoise happens to be the largest tortoise species in southern Africa and can live up to 100 years in the wild! The one rescued in Klerksdorp has likely been alive since the 1950s or 1960s.

This rescue brings to focus the importance of community education regarding our wildlife species. There are many local organisations and authorities that work to teach communities about these laws to protect animals.