Four KZN rhino poachers sentenced in Empangeni court
Environmental Affairs MEC says he hopes the punishment meted out to four poachers in KZN sends a clear message to other rhino poachers that they mean business.
Mduduzi Magwaza, Emmanuel Xulu, Bonginhlanhla Khumalo and Vela Madela were each given sentences of 9, 12, 6 and 3 years.
The Empangeni Magistrates Court found them guilty of rhino poaching and being in possession of illegal firearms and ammunition.
ALSO READ: Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park the worst affected in rhino poaching attacks
MEC, Sihle Zikalala has welcomed the ruling.
"We welcome the judgement that has been issued by the court. We think this judgement will go a long way in sending a clear message that we will not tolerate rhino poaching and we must deal with poachers ruthlessly. We must be harsh and ensure we protect rhinos and other animals that anchor and augment tourism in KZN," he says.