2024/10/25 |
Media Statement MPUMALANGA – Antony Smit (46), was found guilty and sentenced by the Nelspruit Magistrate court on Monday, 21 October 2024 for contravening the provision of Section 22 of the Mpumalanga Nature Conservation act 10 of 1998. It is alleged that, on 29 April 2016 information was received regarding a person in possession of Elephant Tusks. Information was followed up by the Hawks Nelspruit based Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit together with Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency members. At the house in Steiltes Nelspruit, the team met the accused. Two Elephant Tusks were seen on a glass table in the house. The house was then searched, and during the search another two (02) small Tusks were found as well as Leopard skins. The accused was then arrested and later released on bail. The accused was found guilty and sentenced to R10 000.00 fine or five years’ imprisonment, of which half of the sentence is suspended for a period of five years’ on condition that he is not convicted for the same crime during the period of suspension. The Acting Provincial Head Brigadier Danie Hall welcomed the sentence. “The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation remain committed to protect our wildlife and ensure that those responsible for such crimes are brought to justice”. Brigadier Hall further urges all South Africans to be vigilant and to report any suspected environmental crimes to the authorities. “Communities play vital role in the fight against wildlife crimes and by working together with law enforcement agencies, we can make significant strides in safeguarding our environment for future generations “, he added. Ends
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