Three men convicted of rhino poaching have each received heavy sentences at the Skukuza High Court on Tuesday 17 January.
Rhino mother and calf in Kruger National Park.
The three Mozambique nationals, Lawwrene Makamu, George Muyanga, and Nuru Burros, were convicted of trespassing, contravention of the Immigration Act, possession of a firearm, conspiracy to commit illegal poaching, the killing of a black rhino, two counts of killing a white rhino, possession of ammunition, and possession of two hunting knives.
In June last year, the trio entered Kruger National Park through the Malalane section and killed a black rhino. Tourists reported hearing gunshots close to the Afsaal Picnic Site and notified the authorities.
‘The section ranger then activated his team with the help of a helicopter,’ police spokesperson, Brigadier Selvy Mohlala, said. ‘A tracker dog was also brought in to assist in tracing the suspects. The team followed up on the information until fresh rhino carcasses, as well as fresh human footprints, were found.’
They were found in possession of a hunting rifle, a silencer, six fresh rhino horns, and three large hunting knives.
Makamu and Burros were sentenced to 25 years behind bars and Muyanga, who the court considered to be a repeat offender, was jailed for 33 years.
Picture: Getaway Gallery
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