NEWS BRIEFS

KIMBERLEY Two men are facing charges of illegal dealing in rhino horn and the contravention of Section 57 of the National Environmental Management-biodiversity Act, after they were found in possession of rhino horns worth close to R2 million.

The Hawks’ Northern Cape spokesperson, Nomthandazo Mnisi, said that the suspects, Matheus Willem Johannes Viljoen, 55, and Gerrit Michael Johannes Davies, 65, appeared in the Kimberley Magistrate’s Court on Friday.

“The duo were arrested on Thursday during an intelligence-driven operation led by the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigating team, together with the Stock Theft unit and Sanparks. The suspects were caught in possession of two rhino horns and five other smaller pieces valued at R1.9 million. The team also seized an Astra revolver and a vehicle used in the commission of the alleged crime, following their failed attempts to sell the horns. The case against the suspects was postponed for a formal bail application,” said Mnisi. KURUMAN The police are investigating a case of business robbery after a fruit and vegetable store was robbed of an undisclosed amount of money by five suspects.

Kuruman police spokesperson Warrant Officer Mosimaneotsile Letsapa said the incident took place on Wednesday, October 9, at about 4.30pm.

“It is alleged that the 26-yearold owner of the shop was busy counting money when five unknown men entered the store and allegedly demanded money. One of the men was armed with a firearm. A neighbour of the store owner, who is about 75 years old, tried to assist the store owner but was hit on the head with the firearm. The elderly man was admitted to Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe Hospital in Kimberley,” said Letsapa.