Principal Resident Magistrate Rodrick Michongwe in Lilongwe has sentenced George Maloto, 52, to eight years Imprisonment with Hard Labour (IHL) for being found in possession of a live pangolin.

According to the ruling, the state proved the matter beyond reasonable doubt, hence the sentence.

Maloto was arrested on June 13, 2022 at Nathenje after he was found selling the live pangolin.

Maloto pleaded not guilty to the offence, which prompted the state to parade four witnesses to prove the case.

State Prosecutor Mary Jonasi of Central West Region Police told the court that possession of a pangolin is a serious offence, attracting a maximum penalty of 30 years IHL, adding that the convict was a threat to wildlife.

Pangolins are among protected species as enshrined in the National Parks and Wildlife Act of 2017.