By Mpho Moloi
The South African Police Service (SAPS) arrested three suspects in Piet Retief, Mpumalanga, on Wednesday, 21 August 2024, for the unlawful possession of rhino horns. The operation, which occurred at approximately 08:45, is a testament to the effectiveness of community-police collaboration in tackling wildlife crime.
According to Colonel Donald Mdhluli, SAPS spokesperson for the Office of the Provincial Commissioner in Mpumalanga, the arrest followed a tip-off from a vigilant whistleblower. The information pointed to a vehicle traveling from KwaZulu-Natal towards Piet Retief, suspected of transporting illicit goods. Acting on this intelligence, members of the Piet Retief Visible Policing (Vispol) unit intercepted the vehicle on the N2 Road at Idalia in Piet Retief.
A thorough search of the vehicle revealed two rhino horns concealed near the engine compartment. The suspects, comprising two males aged 26 and 39 and a female aged 25, were unable to provide the necessary permits to legally possess the rhino horns. Consequently, they were apprehended and charged with the unlawful possession of parts of an endangered species.
The suspects are scheduled to appear in the Piet Retief Magistrate’s Court today, 22 August 2024, to face charges related to their illegal activities.
Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, the Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, commended the whistleblower for their crucial role in the operation. He also praised the dedication of the SAPS officers involved, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in combating wildlife crime. “The swift action taken by our officers highlights the critical role that community tips play in protecting our nation’s wildlife,” Mkhwanazi stated.
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