By REGINALD KANYANE
21 November 2024- A man (37) who is facing charges of possession of endangered species in terms of the National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act 10 of 2004, set to appear at Tshidilamolo Magistrate’s Court today.
On 15 November 2024, the members of Mahikeng based Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit received a tip-off about the accused, John Mosikare, who was allegedly hunting illegally.
The Hawks spokesperson in North West, Warrant Officer Amogelang Malwetse said, the information was operationalised. Malwetse said in collaboration with members of Mahikeng Tactical Response Team, the suspect’s house at Moshawane village, near Tshidilamolomo was searched.
“During the search, four animal paws and a leopard carcass were found. The suspect did not have a permit to possess any animal species. He was subsequently apprehended.
“Mosikare appeared before court and was released on R300 bail. The matter was postponed to 21 February 2025, for further investigation,” she said.
Meanwhile, the North West acting Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Brigadier Silas Munzhedzi and the Director of Public Prosecutions in North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, lauded the investigation and prosecution team. They have cautioned the public against engaging in illegal hunting of wildlife as it poses a threat to endangered species.
The Guardian 