CAPE TOWN - Three convicted rhino poachers will each serve an effective 35 years behind bars after they were sentenced by the Mogwase Regional Court in the North West.
Their sentencing last week came after alleged poachers were arrested by the Overstrand Municipality’s K9 Unit and Task Team in three separate incidents in Gansbaai, where the team confiscated 1 053 abalone and diving equipment.
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment welcomed the sentencing of the rhino poachers, saying it sent a message to those involved in poaching.
“Sentences of 85 years each were handed down to Mozambican nationals, Arlindo Muhlanga, Adam Hlongwane and Gamula Chauke,” the department noted.
“The men were arrested in 2018 following the poaching and dehorning of three rhino cows in the Pilanesberg Game Reserve.
“The men were found in possession of, amongst others, six rhino horns, an axe, firearms and ammunition. The bakkie they were travelling in was also confiscated.
“The sentence was ordered to run concurrently. The court took into account the fact that the three had been imprisoned for three years while awaiting completion of their trial. They will therefore serve an effective 35 years in prison. All three poachers have been declared unfit to possess a firearm.”
Community Safety MEC Albert Fritz welcomed the nabbing of the poachers in the Overstrand.
He said in a separate incident in the region, the K9 Unit and Task Team also discovered two bags of tik and cash in a vehicle along the R43 near Benguela Cove.
“I welcome news of the K9 Unit’s and all law enforcement agencies’ activities in the Overstrand Region, which we know is a valuable route for the illegal trade in drugs and abalone.
“I am happy at the progress we are making at disrupting these trade routes, but I want to see even more done so that we completely eradicate this illegal trade route. I want to thank each and every one of the officers who work in the area, and encourage them to keep up the good work. Your work is contributing to a better Overberg for all our community members.”
Cape Times