The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure’s Operation Rhino 9 Task Team responsible for prevention, combatting and investigating rhino poaching continues to make notable strides against the scourge of rhino poaching.
This after 365 rhino poachers were convicted in six months and an additional 15 suspects, aged between 33 and 50 years, were arrested in the past week during intelligence driven operations in Mpumalanga. Four unlicensed firearms and ammunition were seized during the arrests.
The strategies that we have put on place in the fight against rhino poaching are significantly reducing the chances of smugglers operating at our ports of entry in our national parks. These arrests should serve as a warning and deterrent to other potential poachers.
Community support and assistance is welcomed in the fight against this scourge. Poachers and smugglers are warned that over and above facing criminal prosecution, their ill gotten gains will also be confiscated in terms of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act 121/1998 (POCA).
We urge the people of South Africa to continue supporting the police in its efforts to bring down the scourge of crime because together we can do more. Anyone with information related to rhino poaching may contact the nearest police station or SAPS Crime Stop number: 08600 10111.
South Africa Today – South Africa News
