Although the latest figures from the South African government show the country’s rhino death toll at 281, sources outside the media cite a figure closer to 300. And sadly, that number increased yet again, with the killing of a young male rhino on a farm in Mossel Bay.
The rhino was darted with a tranquilizer and his horns were sawed off his skull, according to Eyewitness News. It was the second killing at this particular farm, with a previous incident occurring in January.
Sting nabs three rhino horn dealers
A well-known property agent and her husband, along with a third person, were arrested in Fouriesburg after a lengthy investigation culminated with the attempted sale of four rhino horns to an undercover officer.
IOL News reports that Bethlehem property agent Lora Naude, her husband Christo, and a Lesotho citizen identified as Elizabeth Abrahams appeared in court this week. The Naudes were released on R7000 (US $856) each, while Abrahams will remain in custody until her August hearing.
Greta Daniel, sales and operations manager for Pam Golding Franchise Services, told SA Commercial Property News that the company had suspended Lora Naude “until further notice”.
Rhino horn recovered
In India, a police raid on a hotel room in Jorhat resulted in the recovery of a rhino horn. Tiger claws and teeth were also found.
According to IBN Live, the police acted on a tip-off regarding two wildlife traffickers who were staying at the hotel, expecting buyers from Dibrugarh. The pair managed to escape during the raid and the hotel owner was held for questioning.
Two white rhinos via Shutterstock.
