HAWKS make breakthrough in theft of rhino horns

RUSTENBURG – The Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit made another breakthrough into the alleged theft of rhino horns following an arrest of a third suspect on Friday, 14 July 2023, in Rustenburg. Information led the team to Rustenburg where a 46-year-old suspect was arrested for alleged theft of rhino horns which happened on 26 June 2023 at the North West Parks Board. This brings the number of arrests made thus far to three.

The suspect is due to appear in the Mahikeng Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 17 July 2023, where he will be facing a business burglary charge. Meanwhile, Lindani Mthombeni (32) and Elias Mangande (40), the accused in the alleged theft of rhino horns, made a brief appearance in the Mahikeng Magistrates’ court on Thursday, 13 July 2023. The pair will appear in the same court on 21 July 2023 for bail application.