R115 million rhino horn bust at OR Tambo
Officials at the OR Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) made
a major bust when they discovered more than 41 pieces of rhino horn.
The horns were declared as fine art and are valued at R115.66 million.
The consignment were destined for Kuala Lumpur via Doha.
“During a physical inspection of the consignment, customs officials discovered six boxes containing 41 pieces of rhino horn, which had been concealed in carbon paper and foil and wrapped in traditional material," read a statement by the SA Revenue Service (SARS).
On Monday, custom officials also discovered abalone and ephedrine, which were hidden in two printer cartridges and destined for Madagascar.
READ: Minister Mantashe and wife test positive for COVID-19
The abalone, which was destined for Hong Kong, is estimated at a value of R1 million while the ephedrine is valued at R600 000.
SARS commissioner Edward Kieswetter congratulated officials for the breakthrough.
He says criminal and illicit economic activities cost the country’s economy billions in lost taxes.
“I am therefore very pleased with the success at ORTIA by our Customs officials. I wish to express sincere appreciation to our Customs Officers for this diligence in fighting these unacceptable criminal activities.”
Gallery
