Hawks obtain R5.86 million order to combat rhino horn trafficking.
Image: File
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) has secured a preservation order over four properties valued at R5,860,000 linked to a rhino horn trafficking and poaching syndicate, following a coordinated multi-agency investigation involving local and international law enforcement bodies.
The order comes as Congolese national Francis Kipampa serves an 18-year prison sentence after pleading guilty to rhino horn trafficking, money laundering, and his central role in a sophisticated wildlife crime network.
Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Magonseni Nkosi said Kipampa was among 16 suspects arrested during the extensive investigation, which also implicated two former game rangers and several family members.
"The remaining 15 accused are awaiting trial on multiple charges," Nkosi said.
A wide-ranging probe brought together multiple stakeholders, including the Hawks Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigation, KPMG, SAPS Crime Intelligence, SANParks, Financial Intelligence Centre, National Prosecuting Authority through its Asset Forfeiture Unit, Department of Home Affairs, the Insurance Crime Bureau, and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, among others.
Investigators made a significant breakthrough when six rhino horns were recovered in Kabokweni, leading to the launch of Project Blood Orange.
"During the investigation, a vehicle fitted with a false compartment was discovered at Kipampa’s residence," said Nkosi.
The Hawks say the operation exposed deep corruption within wildlife protection structures.
“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 the Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Major General Nico Gerber.
The project came at a great cost to the DPCI in Mpumalanga, as it claimed the life of a dedicated and skilled investigator who was tragically assassinated on his way to work on March 17, 2020.”
Authorities say the preservation order marks a significant step in dismantling the financial infrastructure behind wildlife trafficking networks, with further asset forfeiture proceedings expected to follow.
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