The Customs unit of the South African Revenue Service (SARS) intercepted a shipment of rhino horn at OR Tambo International Airport destined for Malaysia with an estimated value of R53,172,000 on February 4.
The Customs Detector Dog Unit selected a suspicious shipment marked as ‘HP Cartridges Developers’. Upon inspection of the boxes, 18 pieces of rhino horn weighing 63kg were found concealed in traditional clothing.
The Customs officers immediately called the Directorate of Priority Crimes Investigation (Hawks) to the scene who confiscated the shipment for further investigation.
In his reaction to this massive seizure of the rhino horn, Commissioner Edward Kieswetter congratulated the Customs officers for their excellent work.
‘Those that are determined to destroy the rich natural endowment of our country, which is a common treasure and heritage for all, that we should look after for future generations, will be met with unwavering commitment of our officers to enforce the law,’ he said.
He went on to warn the perpetrators of crime that SARS, working with other law enforcement agencies, would spare no efforts in confronting and dealing decisively with any criminal malfeasance. ‘Those that are involved in such egregious and merciless killing of rhinoceros and mutilating them will be brought to book,’ SARS said in a statement.
Also read:
Picture: Getaway gallery
