SKUKUZA POACHER SENTENCED TO 22 YEARS IMPRISONMENT
The Skukuza Regional Court has today convicted and sentenced Enock Ngobeni ( 31), from Mozambique to 22 years imprisonment, for poaching-related offences. Ngobeni pleaded guilty to the crimes and was subsequently convicted of trespassing in Skukuza National Park, Contravention of Immigration Act, two counts of killing rhinos, conspiracy to commit an offense, and possession of a dangerous weapon.
On 17 April 2023, rangers of the Tshokwane Section in Skukuza were patrolling and found two rhino carcasses. They followed footprints and found Ngobeni and his unknown accomplice in possession of a firearm and two fresh rhino horns. Ngobeni was arrested, and his accomplice escaped and is still on the run.
In court, Ngobeni pleaded guilty to the crime, and in aggravation of sentence, Regional Court Prosecutor Lot Mgiba led DNA evidence of rhino horns that were found in their possession, and it matched two carcasses that were found in Tshokwane Section. This accused was sentenced accordingly.
The National Prosecuting Authority is pleased with the speedy finalisation of the matter. We welcome the conviction and sentence.
