The 16 accused, Francis Kipampa, Martin Lekhuleni, Eunice Lekhuleni, Sipho Nyundu, Solly Ubisi, Agina Mkhonto, Thandy Makhuvele, Ignatia Mnisi, Given Mzima, Daniel Maluleke, Joyce Maluleke, Nkateko Maluleke, Otters Maluleke, Miyelani Maluleke, Khensani Maluleke and Stephilina Mbhombi who were arrested during “Project Blood Orange” and linked to several cases appeared in the Nelspruit Commercial Crimes Court on 31 May 2023 on charges of money laundering, corruption, conspiracy, contraventions of Section 57 of NEMBA relating to dealing in rhino horns and other charges.
This appearance follows a meticulous investigation by the Serious Corruption Investigation of the DPCI Mpumalanga into allegations of money laundering and corruption liked to wildlife related crimes.
16 suspects, including two former Field rangers Daniel Maluleke, Solly Ubisi and their family members were arrested following an investigation by a multidisciplinary team in project dubbed ‘Blood Orange’.
The team included KPMG, SARS and FIC.
The case against the sixteen was postponed to 25 October 2023 for final auditors’ report and pre-trial conference.
The Provincial Head of DPCI in Mpumalanga applauded the team’s cooperation which resulted into this resounding success. “This serves as a stern warning to those who involve themselves in wildlife trafficking activities that their days are numbered”, said Maj Gen Nico Gerber.
