KWAZULU-NATAL – On Tuesday, 8 February 2022, the Durban Regional court convicted and sentenced Sizwe Buthelezi (39) to ten years direct imprisonment for possession of unlicensed firearm and rhino horns which happened at Ntambanana area.

On 11 October 2018, Buthelezi who was a member of the KwaMsane Tactical Response Team was seen leaving Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park. Rhino 9 Task Team and Ezemvelo Wildlife officials who were in the vicinity tried to stopped him but he sped off and a high speed chase ensued. He eventually lost control of his vehicle and crashed into a house.

Buthelezi was found in possession of a hunting rifle with live rounds of ammunition, three hunting knives and two freshly cut rhino horns. He was placed under arrest and later charged accordingly by the Hawks members from Richards Bay Serious Organised Crime Investigation.

Members conducted an intensive investigation and he appeared in the Ngwelezane Magistrate’s Court on 15 October 2018. The case was later transferred to Durban Regional Court for trial. Buthelezi appeared in court several times until he was sentenced yesterday. He was further declared unfit to possess firearm.

Source: South African Police Service