Four arrested thanks to team effort

A team effort between environmental crime investigators of SANParks and the organised crime unit of the SAPS led to the arrest of four suspected rhino poachers.

The four men, Job Basi Tlou of Mahlanga in Mpumalanga, Percy Manengena of Alldays, and Johannes Podile and Lebala Sematla, both of the farm Den Staat, which neighbours the Mapungubwe National Park, were arrested last Friday (15th).

They are suspected of poaching and dehorning a white rhino in Mapungubwe on 23 July. All four appeared on charges relating to the illegal entry of a national park, poaching and possession of rhino horns.

According to SANParks’ acting head of communications, Reynold Thakhuli, the men's case was postponed after they briefly appeared in the Louis Trichardt District Court on Monday. They will remain in custody until their next appearance on 26 August.

News - Date: 22 August 2014

Isabel Venter

Isabel joined the Zoutpansberger and Limpopo Mirror in 2009 as a reporter. She holds a BA Degree in Communication Sciences from the University of South Africa. Her beat is mainly crime and court reporting.

Email: [email protected]