The Skukuza Regional Court has convicted and sentenced three accused to various sentences for poaching-related offences.

Zwelithini Mathebula (37) and Lucky Mhlongo (39) were sentenced to 34 years’ imprisonment each, while Teddy Dlamini (37) was sentenced to 39 years.

The provincial spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority, Monica Nyuswa, said the three were convicted of killing three rhinos, the possession of a prohibited firearm, ammunition, and a dangerous weapon, and conspiracy to commit a crime. Dlamini was further convicted of pointing a firearm and trespassing in the Kruger National Park.

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“On November 23, 2019, a ranger was patrolling in the Malelani section when he spotted a vehicle with five occupants. Upon stopping it, Dlamini pointed a firearm at the ranger, and later, when searching it, a rifle and six rhino horns were found in the vehicle, and the ranger arrested them. The ranger continued with the search and found three carcases a few metres away from the scene.

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“They pleaded not guilty, and State Prosecutor Lot Mgiba led evidence from the arresting officer, who testified from what he had observed when he arrested the accused, as well as the evidence of DNA that was found on Dlamini’s clothes. It positively linked him with the carcase. Evidence of a bullet found in the carcase also confirmed that the bullet was fired from the rifle found in the accused’s possession,” she said.

Nyuswa also said the NPA was pleased with the sentence imposed on the accused, and commended the prosecution and the investigating team for a job well done.