South African authorities have arrested a 28-year-old man accused of attempting to smuggle 150 venomous scorpions through Cape Town International Airport.

Police said the suspect concealed the live scorpions among his clothing and inside his luggage. The arrest followed an investigation during which authorities circulated his description before intercepting him at the airport.

In a statement, police said the man was charged under environmental and nature conservation laws, as well as for the illegal possession of wildlife. He is expected to appear in court on Monday.

The seized scorpions were transferred to a specialized wildlife facility for care and preservation, while officials continue to assess their financial and ecological value.

Authorities noted that illegal wildlife trafficking remains a major challenge in South Africa, one of the world’s most biodiverse countries.