Three Arrested for Rhino Horn Trade in Swellendam

Three arrested for possession and selling of rhino horn without a permit.

On Wednesday, 2 July 2025, the Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigations (Hawks) assisted by SAPS K9 Unit, Overberg and Stock Theft and Endangered Species based in Swellendam, executed an undercover operation at Buffeljags River, N2 route outside of Swellendam. Three suspects were arrested, found to be in possession of the rhino horn and also engaged in a transaction to sell the rhino horn during an undercover operation. CapeNature officials were contacted to assist in the further investigation of the case, which was subsequently registered at the Swellendam Police Station.

Three rhino horns to the value of R258 270 were recovered. Charges are linked to alleged contraventions under the Nature Conservation Ordinance 19 of 1974, relating to possession and sale, without a permit. The suspects, all from Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, appeared in the Swellendam magistrates' court on Friday, 4 July 2025. The case against Shaun Barties (41), Christopher Farret (35) and Cheslyn Whitebooi (45) was postponed to 11 July 2025 fora bail application. All three were remanded into custody.

“The illegal trade in rhino horn remains one of the most pervasive forms of biodiversity crime. CapeNature commends the swift and coordinated action of the Hawks and SAPS and is committed to supporting law enforcement efforts to bring perpetrators to justice,” said CapeNature CEO Dr Ashley Naidoo.

Additional rhino poaching-related information and statistics can be found here: https://helpingrhinos.org/rhino-poaching-in-2024/

CapeNature General Manager:

Advocacy Petro van Rhyn