Six suspects, Nelson Usale Mlotha (46), Darlington Cele (43), Autsan Mwanyani (42), Ndumiso Masuku (42), Kelvin Chakwira (35), and Lyton Kamanga (30), appeared before the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court on Monday 11 November 2019, facing charges of possession of elephant tusks.
A sting operation was conducted by a joint team consisting of the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Endangered Species unit, Midrand Detectives and Provincial Investigation unit resulted in the apprehension of six men at President Park in Midrand on Friday 8 November 2019, for possession of three elephant tusks weighing 58-kilograms. The tusks were neatly wrapped in plastic and weaved bags.
The team had kept surveillance on the suspects for a while following-up on information received before they pounced on the group when they were delivering the loot to the apparent buyer.
All six have been remanded in custody and are expected back in court on 18 November 2019, pending further investigation.
South Africa Today – South Africa News
