Two field rangers nabbed
TWO field rangers were arrested for allegedly sharing tactical information with rhinopoaching syndicates in exchange for large sums of money, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) said on Sunday.
Spokesperson Warrant-Officer Bonnie Nxumalo said the two, aged 56 and 60, were arrested on Saturday afternoon in Skukuza and charged with corruption, money laundering and fraud linked to wildlife trafficking.
“The suspects were arrested by the Mpumalanga-based Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation team assisted by the Skukuza Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit during operation Blood Orange. The arrest follows a comprehensive investigation which included their financial affairs. It is alleged that the suspects provided tactical information to rhino poaching syndicates in exchange for large sums of money,” Nxumalo said.
They were expected to appear in the Bushbuckridge Magistrate’s Court yesterday.
“Further arrests cannot be ruled out since the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with further information is urged to contact the Hawks investigating officer, Colonel Danie Hall on 071 481 3281,” Nxumalo said.
On Friday, Mpumalanga police said four alleged rhino poachers arrested in two separate incidents at the Kruger National Park on April 18 and 19 were remanded in custody during their court appearance.
Spokesperson Brigadier Selvy Mohlala said field rangers spotted human footprints which signalled possible poachers inside the park.
“The rangers followed the tracks with a tracker dog and cornered two male suspects. Police at Skukuza were notified and upon their arrival, the two men were arrested and charged for possession of an unlicensed firearm with ammunition. More charges may be added as the investigation continues.
“The pair were found with items in their possession which included a hunting rifle with its serial numbers filedoff, live ammunition as well as an axe. The suspects were identified as Raydon Zitha, 24 and Ernesto Zitha, 27. The investigation revealed that the two men are Mozambican nationals and had entered South Africa illegally, hence they are faced with a charge of contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa. At their court appearance, the case of the two was postponed to May 4 for a formal bail hearing.”