NW conservation official arrested for dealing in rhino horn
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has confirmed the arrest of an official for illegal dealing in rhino horn.
The official is employed at the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism.
Spokesperson Albi Modise says the official was colluding with a businessman.
They were both arrested on Thursday afternoon.
“The men were arrested and a vehicle seized by a multi-departmental team comprising members of the Department’s Green Scorpions, working in collaboration with the Hawks, the DEDECT and the Northern Cape Department of Environment and Nature Conservation.
“The suspects are alleged to have conveyed 17 individual detached rhino horns from the Northern Cape to North West in contravention of permit conditions issued by both provinces.”
The men are also alleged to have been involved in the trade in rhino horn using permits to cover up their illegal activities.
The suspects are expected to appear in the Mmabatho Magistrate’s Court on Monday.
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