Two suspects, aged 36 and 40 years, were arrested at O R Tambo International Airport on Monday evening with 10 pieces of rhino horn worth an estimated R2-million in their possession.
According to a statement issued by the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure, members of the detective team at the airport followed up information about the smuggling of horns.
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The suspects arrived at the airport with the intention of boarding a flight to Vietnam but they were intercepted by the police and their luggage was searched.
This was one of many successes in the ongoing war against endangered species and wildlife crimes in the country. The arrest comes after intensive and thorough investigation by the members of the multi-disciplinary team at O R Tambo International Airport, said police spokesperson Lt Col KD Mogale.
The partnership of the different stakeholders involved in this never-ending challenge is vital, and it continues to yield positive results.
The suspects appeared in Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court on charges of illegal possession of rhino horn.
