Tebogo Msimanga |
Two accused, Schalk Steyn (48) and Johannes Groenewald (53) appeared in the Nelspruit Magistrates’ Court on Thursday after they were arrested whilst transporting 19 rhino horns in two bakkies. They were answering to charges of illegal possession and selling of rhino horns.
Hawks Spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale said the pair was arrested during a multi-disciplinary operation conducted on Wednesday 21 July 2021 by the Hawks’ Organised Crime Investigation, Wildlife Trafficking Counter-Intelligence and private sector to curb wildlife trafficking.
“During their arrest, they were found with 19 rhino horns with an estimated value of R2,6 million which were seized and the two vehicles that were transporting them were impounded.”
The investigation to ascertain if the suspects are linked to crimes contravening the Endangered Species Act is continuing. The pair is back in court on Friday,23 July 2021 for a formal bail application.
