Hawks and SAPS K9 Unit thwart rhino horn trafficking in Swellendam

In a significant bust against wildlife crime, the Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigations (Hawks), alongside the SAPS K9 Unit, Overberg, and Stock Theft and Endangered Species officials, executed an undercover operation on Wednesday, 2 July 2025, at Buffeljags River, located on the N2 route outside Swellendam. This operation resulted in the arrest of three suspects, who were found in possession of a substantial quantity of rhino horn, engaging in a transaction to sell the illicit product.

During the operation, law enforcement recovered three rhino horns valued at R258,270, wrapping up a meticulous investigation that underscores South Africa's ongoing battle against the illicit wildlife trade. The suspects, all originating from Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape, have been charged with alleged contraventions under the Nature Conservation Ordinance 19 of 1974, specifically relating to possession and sale of wildlife products without the necessary permits.

The case against the accused — Shaun Barties (41), Christopher Farret (35), and Cheslyn Whitebooi (45) — was brought before the Swellendam Magistrates Court on Friday, 4 July 2025, where it was postponed until 11 July for bail application, with all three suspects remanded into custody.

Dr Ashley Naidoo, CEO of CapeNature, expressed the importance of this operation in combating wildlife crime, stating, “The illegal trade in rhino horn is one of the most pervasive forms of biodiversity crime.

"CapeNature commends the swift and co-ordinated action of the Hawks and SAPS and is committed to supporting law enforcement efforts to bring perpetrators to justice.”

CapeNature emphasised that this operation highlights the urgent need for ongoing vigilance in protecting South Africa’s wildlife. With the prevalence of illegal trade in species products, authorities remain on high alert to safeguard biodiversity and ecological integrity in an increasingly threatened environment.