AFU strikes rhino horn dealer
The horns were hacked off a rhino bull killed in the Mapungubwe Game Reserve on 19 July, 2014.
THE Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) snatched R248 600 cash from a convicted rhino horn dealer who failed to explain the origins of the large sum of money found in his possession.
Albino Alfred Mazuze and his co-accused were convicted of rhino poaching and dealing in rhino horn in March 2016 in Louis Trichard, after buying two horns for R600 000 from poachers.
The horns were hacked off a rhino bull killed in the Mapungubwe Game Reserve on 19 July, 2014.
Mazuze also has a previous conviction for dealing in rhino horns.
At the time of Mazuze’s arrest, he was found in possession of R248 600 cash.
The AFU launched an application in the Limpopo High Court for a preservation order of the money, on the basis that it was the proceeds of illegal dealing in rhino horn, which was subsequently granted.
Crime syndicates arrive substantial benefits from their illegal activities, which motivate them to continue.
Jail sentences are basically regarded by criminals as occupational hazards, as long as they can sustain their lifestyles and take care of their families.
When they are released, they can continue to live in luxury.
The AFU was thus established to ensure that crime does not pay and focuses on crimes relating to corruption, drugs, precious metals, natural resources, robberies, theft and keeping of brothels.
Assets obtained from the proceeds of crime and assets used to commit crime, may be seized and declared forfeited to the state.
The money is then transferred to the criminal assets and recovery account and used for public services such as healthcare, education, social development and as funding to fight organised crime.
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