Facing the full wrath of the law has been a wake-up call for Wade van Staden (32) of Margate after he was caught transporting a rhino horn without a permit two years ago.

On October 2, 2020, Van Staden was arrested by members of the Pietermaritzburg K9 Unit and the SAPS Flying Squad, while travelling on the southbound lane on the N3 freeway, Orthmann Road.

Van Staden pleaded guilty in the Pietermaritzburg Magistrate’s Court to being in possession of the rhino horn.

He made many court appearances since his arrest, and was finally sentenced to 18 months behind bars, wholly suspended for five years, on condition that he did not commit a similar offence in the same period.

In his plea, Van Staden says he was travelling in his black BMW when he was stopped by police and asked to get out of his vehicle. The police then searched his car.

“On searching my car, a black rhino horn was found under the seat. I was unable to produce a permit which is required.”

Speaking to the South Coast Herald, Van Staden says he is remorseful for his actions.

He explains that the rhino horn he was transporting, was a family heirloom, and it was estimated to be more than 100 years old.

Although original reports said the horn was estimated to be valued at R1.2m, Van Staden says the actual value of the horn couldn’t be determined. The horn, he added, apparently belonged to a black rhino.

“These rhinos are not found in South Africa but mostly in Kenya,” he says.

“I feel I have paid the price for my role in this case. I have lost everything and have been unemployed since my arrest. For more than a year I’ve begged friends to cut their grass or do anything for cash.”

He further adds that many people turned their backs on him during this difficult time, and has had police stop and search him.

Van Staden has since secured permanent employment with businessman Ryan Bothma.

He says he is excited to start a new chapter, and thankful for the opportunity he has been given.