A joint sting operation by the Hawks’ Bellville-based Economic Protected Resources (EPR) Unit, SAPS K9 Unit Overberg, and Swellendam’s Stock Theft on and Endangered Species team on July 2 has led to the arrest of three suspects, aged between 35 and 45, for the illegal possession and sale of rhino horns without a permit.
According to a police statement the Hawks members conducted an operation where rhinoceros horns were allegedly purchased on the N2, Buffeljags Rivier, Swellendam.
In 2024, 420 rhinos were killed in South Africa, a welcome decrease of more than 15% compared to 2023. Yet organised crime remains a significant threat to rhinos in the country. Rhino poaching is not merely the work of opportunistic criminals; it is part of a complex web of illicit networks that span national and continental borders. The people involved undertake different forms of illegal activities, from tracking and killing rhinos in protected areas to smuggling their horns and sourcing global buyers. Disrupting these intricate networks requires multifaceted approaches and international partnerships.
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“This operation led to the arrest of one of the suspects. The other two attempted to flee but were pursued and apprehended. Three rhinoceros horns to the value of R258 270.00 were recovered,” the statement read.
The suspects will make their first appearance at the Swellendam Magistrates Court on Friday, July 4.
