Thokozile Mnguni
The Hawks in Mpumalanga have secured a preservation order over four properties worth more than R5.8 million. The properties are linked to a rhino horn trafficking and poaching syndicate.
Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Magonseni Nkosi said the order follows a lengthy investigation involving several agencies and private sector partners.
Congolese national Francis Kipampa is serving an 18-year prison sentence.
He pleaded guilty to rhino horn trafficking, money laundering and involvement in a poaching syndicate.
The preservation order covers four properties valued at R5 860 000.
The investigation involved the Hawks, SANParks, SAPS Crime Intelligence and the Financial Intelligence Centre. The National Prosecuting Authority’s Asset Forfeiture Unit also formed part of the operation.
The probe led to the arrest of 16 suspects. Among them were Kipampa, two former game rangers and several family members.
Kipampa pleaded guilty in the Middelburg Regional Court. The remaining 15 accused are still awaiting trial on several charges.
Investigators also found a vehicle fitted with a false compartment at Kipampa’s residence.
A major breakthrough came when Hawks investigators recovered six rhino horns in Kabokweni. The recovery led to the launch of Project Blood Orange.
Mpumalanga Hawks head Major General Nico Gerber said the project exposed corrupt game rangers linked to poaching syndicates.
“Project Blood Orange showcases the power of financial forensic investigations in exposing the activities of corrupt rangers who shared crucial information with rhino poaching syndicates,” said Gerber.
Gerber said the investigation came at a high cost. A Hawks investigator linked to the case was assassinated on his way to work on 17 March 2020.