The Johannesburg Flying Squad arrested 14 men for allegedly trading in rhino skin in a blanket factory in Kempton Park.
The arrest on 21 June follows a tip-off by a police informant and it is said the factory belongs to Chinese nationals.
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Johannesburg Flying Squad media officer, Sergeant Desmond Subramoney, said the factory is based in the Isando Business Park. “We arrested two Chinese and 12 Malawian nationals for possession of rhino skin and body parts,” he said.
“The police officers acted on the information received and discovered boxes packed with rhino skin and body parts. The estimated street value for the skin and body parts is R3 million.” It was confiscated and police investigations are continuing
The suspects, aged between 20 and 40 are expected to appear in the Kempton Park Magistrates’ Court soon.
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Subramoney said police are working hard to provide a 24-hour emergency service to receive information and effect arrests and prevent crime.
He urged the community to report any suspicious activity and pass on information about crime anonymously on Crime Stop 08600 10111 or SMS 32211.
Details: Desmond Subramoney 011 248 1316.
