Police Captain, Chris Du Plessis of the Maake stock theft unit appeared before the Hoedspruit periodical Court on Tuesday, August 22 on a charge of ‘removal or movement of any controlled animal or thing across land in a controlled area without a permit’ and was granted R 4000 bail.
“Captain Du Plessis was found escorting three men Martinus Boschoff (32)‚ Frederick Klopper (61) and Joseph Mkhokha (42) who had allegedly poached a giraffe and were trying to leave the East Gate Game Farm in the Timbavati”, Police Spokesman Brigadier Vishnu Naidoo explained.
It is alleged that incriminating items were recovered were trying to leave the East Gate Game Farm in the Timbavati”, PoliceSpokesman Brigadier Vishnu Naidoo explained.
Following a tip off provided to the Rhino 08 Poaching Task Team.
“When Du Plessis disclosed evidence that led to the discovery of an unlicensed revolver, 1 x 270 rifle barrel, one wooden rifle butt, approximately 70 rifle rounds, an unlicensed firearm with the serial number filed off, and a 303 cartridge in hisvehicle which has since been confiscated for further investigations”, added Naidoo.
According to information, the other three suspects were found in possession of a 303 hunting rifle, a silencer, a telescope, more than ten 303 rounds and giraffe game meat.
It is understood he has been given notice of suspension in terms of section 43 of the SAPS Act 68/1995 and will appear again before again in court on October 12.
