The Department of Environmental Affairs has deployed Environmental Management Inspectors, known as the Green Scorpions, at OR Tambo International Airport to ensure compliance with the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEMBA).
A team of 10 compliance officials will ensure that export and re-export of Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITE)- listed species permits are endorsed after physical inspection of consignments and that import permits are cancelled after use.
A team of nine officials will make sure that non-compliance with NEMBA regulations are enforced. A team of officials will also ensure that the Alien and Invasive Species Regulations are complied with.
Green Scorpions may also be deployed at other designated ports of entry over a period of time.
Shops trading in the International Departure Hall of OR Tambo have also been checked to ensure that they comply with NEMBA regulations so that people buying CITES-listed products comply with permit requirements. A number of shops are currently non-compliant and enforcement action will be taken.
The Green Scorpions will also ensure that people using other airports in Gauteng comply with the requirements in the NEMBA regulations and spot checks will be conducted at these airports.
