I've previously owned a lovely specimen named Betty. Well needless to say I lost custody of her at the end of a previous relationship.

Ive learnt that they've been outlawed and one cannot purchase these beauties any longer, does it also apply to shopping, trading or possession?

They are a protected Genus so you may not keep them without a permit.

I see, thought that they were seen as an invasive species...

So how do I go about aquiring myself a permit? I really want another OBT

They are said to be invasive but they are protected.
They do come across in SA.

The only way to get them or keep them legally will be with a permit, as for the right person to contact I can't help you there.