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Over R23 million worth Rhino horns seized at Ortia cargo

Over thirty pieces of rhino horns were seized at the OR Tambo International Airport this morning during an on-going operation into ridding the airport of criminal activities.

Recent reports of the detection of Rhino Horns in the East originating from Southern Africa led to increased enforcement interventions on outbound flights at the Cargo area of ORTIA. The multi-disciplinary team at OR Tambo International Airport which comprises of various government departments including members from various disciplines in the South African Police Service, Customs and Excise, ACSA Security and other stakeholders are on alert and continue to work tirelessly to stop contraband including rhino horns from being smuggled through this port of entry.

It’s reported that whilst performing K9 searches at several cargo warehouses, the K9 members arrived at certain warehouse where export consignments were packed to be shipped out. The K9 detector dog reacted positively to a shipment destined to destination in the Middle East. Upon physical examination the consignment was found to be containing door mats as well as cut and laminated ply wood. Further examination revealed over 30 pieces of rhino horn wrapped in plastic concealed under the laminated wood pieces.

Successes such as this, are a culmination of efforts that form part of the new revised strategy that has been implemented at the O R Tambo International Airport under the leadership of Major General Dimakatso Ndaba which involves the South African Police Service’s Crime Intelligence, Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigation, Airports Company South Africa, O R Tambo International Airport, State Security Agency and other role players.

People may call our Crime Stop number 0860010111 with such information. Callers may remain anonymous and all information will be treated with strictest confidence. We urge the people of South Africa to continue supporting police efforts in the fight against crime.


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