The Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation team in Durban arrested six men aged between 27 and 40 yesterday, 18 February 2021 for possession of elephant tusks and contravention of the National Environmental Management of the Biodiversity Act.
An intelligence-driven operation was conducted at the King Shaka International Airport after information about men possessing elephant tusks was received. Three men were intercepted whilst driving into the airport and a search was conducted. Two elephant tusks were found inside their vehicle and they were immediately arrested after they failed to provide the reason for them to possess parts of endangered species. The recovered tusks weighed 8.1 kilograms and have an estimated street value of R200 000-00.
The investigation led police to a lodge in Durban North where further three men were arrested. Their vehicle was seized for further investigation. It was further discovered that the suspects were in Durban searching for a buyer of the tusks.
The suspects will appear at the Verulam Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 22 February 2021.