MBOMBELA – The long-awaited continuation of the poaching trial of former South African National Defence Force soldier, Mr Boet Leonard Mashego and his co-accused, Mr Michael Sithole, had to be postponed when their attorney did not show up at the Nelspruit Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday.
It was placed on record that defence attorney Mr Daniel Mabunda would have to account for his whereabouts on Wednesday when the case resumed.
Mashego and Sithole were arrested on September 19, 2010 after a rhino carcass was discovered in Stolsnek in the Kruger National Park. Its horns had been removed.
Previous testimony of a ranger who may not be identified, recounted the events of the night. He said it was at about 03:45 when they found Mashego inside the fence of the park. Sithole was on the outside. Mashego pointed his firearm in the rangers’ direction and that was when they opened fire.
A shoot-out ensued during which Mashego was wounded. He was taken into custody while wearing his uniform. Two rhino horns, two firearms and ammunition was allegedly found in their possession. Mashego’s defence previously claimed that he was looking for his cattle at the time of their arrest while Sithole was searching for herbs. Their attorney will defend their version in court after explaining his wherabouts when he should have been in court on Wednesday.
