Six Arrested In Pretoria For International Rhino Horn Trafficking And Fraud

Six members of a transnational rhino horn trafficking syndicate were arrested this morning, 19 August 2025, in Sunnyside, Pretoria. The suspects, including five men aged between 49 and 84 and a woman aged 60, handed themselves over to the Hawks’ Wildlife Trafficking Section of the Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit.

The arrests follow a lengthy investigation that began in 2017 into allegations of international rhino horn smuggling. The suspects are believed to have played key roles in facilitating the illegal trade of rhino horns across borders.

Fraudulent Permit Scheme Exposed

According to investigations, the suspects allegedly defrauded the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment (DFFE) by applying for permits to legally buy and sell rhino horns locally. Instead, these permits were reportedly used as cover to channel rhino horns into illegal markets in Southeast Asia.

The fraudulent scheme is linked to an estimated 964 rhino horns valued at millions of rands. Authorities believe the operation was a sophisticated network designed to bypass South Africa’s wildlife trade laws and exploit international demand.

Court Appearance and Charges

In South Africa, rhino horn trade is strictly regulated under the National Environmental Management Biodiversity (NEMBA) Act of 2004, which only allows sales between South African citizens with valid permits.

Exporting or selling rhino horns to non-South African citizens remains illegal due to a global ban.

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The six suspects are expected to appear before the Pretoria Magistrates Court today. They face charges of fraud, theft, and contravention of the NEMBA Act, with possible additional charges of racketeering and money laundering.

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