Tebogo Msimanga |
A well-known farmer in Mpumalanga Deon Cornelius (48) was found guilty on Monday and sentenced to pay R10 000.00 or 3 years imprisonment. He sold 5 of his Legal Rhino horns without a permit. He is expected to pay additional fine of R50 000.00 to be paid to Mpumalanga Parks board.
The Provincial Head Major General Zodwa Mokoena applauded the investigating team and the Prosecuting Authorities together with the Judiciary by ensuring that justice prevails.
“We believe that this will serve as a lesson to others who commit wildlife related crimes that their days are numbered and their time is coming.They will face the mighty hand of the law” added General Mokoena.
The Hawks at Mpumalanga, acted on information on the 4th of January 2018 about a suspect from Gauteng Province who was buying rhino horns from Deon Cornelius at Buffelskloof Middelburg Mpumalanga.Two Chinese nationals were arrested , rhino horn and R699 000 in cash were seized.
Through a follow up investigation, Yansen Feng a chinese man was charged for illegal dealing in specially protected species and accused sentence to R60 000.00 or six months imprisonment
A 34 yearl old Liu Li Hong , was charged for Illegal possession of drugs and illegal immigration. The accused was sentenced to pay R60 000.00 or two years imprisonment .
