The police have busted an alleged rhino poaching ring, arresting nine people, including two veterinarians and a game farmer in Limpopo, an official said on Tuesday.
“Nine people were arrested including two veterinarians, one of their spouses and a game farmer and his spouse,” said national police spokesperson Vishnu Naidoo.
“They are expected to appear in the Musina Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday.”
The nine arrests were made in early morning raids on Monday at Modimolle, Polokwane and Musina.
The ring was linked to “hundreds of rhino poaching incidents”, said Naidoo.
The accused will face charges relating to the breach of regulations that govern the protection of wildlife.
“This was a joint effort between the Hawks, SA National Parks, the National Prosecuting Authority and aviation authorities.”
Beeld newspaper reported on Tuesday that the two veterinarians were well-known in Modimolle and owned an animal clinic and a wildlife organisation involved in catching and transporting game.
More than 200 rhinos have been killed for their horns since the beginning of this year, up from a total of 122 rhinos poached last year, said Beeld. – Sapa