Four suspects appear in court for alleged dealing in rhino horn

Media Statement
Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation
(HAWKS)

NORTH WEST – Raher Mahomed (27), Joao Seven (39), Abraham Khoza (49) and Usuf Mikilo (51) appeared in the Thlabane Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 18 March 2024, facing charges of dealing in rhino horn.

The accused were arrested on Friday, 15 March 2024, following a sting operation in Rustenburg. The police received information about four suspects who were reportedly planning to sell a rhino horn for R65 000. Information was operationalised, and the police pounced on the suspects soon after making a transaction.

They have been charged with dealing in rhino horn under National Environmental Biodiversity Act 10 of 2004. All four suspects were remanded in custody and will appear in the same court on 20 March 2024 for bail application.

The North West Head of Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Major General Patrick Mbotho, has welcomed the arrest and lauded the members’ swift action on the information received.
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