Hawks and SAPS K9 Unit thwart rhino horn trafficking in Swellendam
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.
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'They undermine the constitutional right to water, threaten public health, disrupt education, and impede economic activity.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading He explained that pipelines, pump stations, reservoirs, and treatment plants were being damaged, while contractors faced intimidation and extortion aimed at halting or manipulating projects. Illegal connections were compounding the problem, reducing supply and placing additional strain on already vulnerable systems. 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'It is not just about constructing dams or pipelines; it is about ensuring the services are maintained, the communities are empowered, and the infrastructure remains secure for years to come,' he said. He outlined ongoing initiatives to expand South Africa's water supply, including bulk water infrastructure, rehabilitation of treatment plants, and improved rural distribution. He called for collaboration between government, private investors, and communities to ensure water security translates into social and economic development. The summit also provided a platform for African countries to share best practices, align with continental frameworks like the Africa Water Vision 2025, and leverage development partner support. Mahlobo said measurable commitments, clear timelines, and secured funding were essential to turning plans into action. He emphasised the importance of integrating governance reforms, technology, and community engagement to ensure infrastructure is protected and effectively managed while ensuring reliable water and sanitation services for all. Namibia's Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform, Inge Zaamwani, underscored the importance of regional cooperation in addressing shared water security challenges. She highlighted Namibia's investments in bulk water infrastructure, groundwater management, and rural water supply, stressing that sustainable water management is essential for food security, public health, and economic growth, particularly in arid regions. Zaamwani also emphasised involving communities in governance and using technology to monitor efficiency and water quality. 'The summit has reinforced that water security cannot be addressed by one country alone. We must work together to protect shared resources, attract investment, and ensure that every citizen has access to safe, reliable water and sanitation,' she said.
