PRETORIA – SARS Customs officials intercepted yet another suspicious bag with 28.76kg rhino horns valued at almost R6-million at OR Tambo International Airport yesterday, Wednesday, June 14.

This is the second rhino horn bust in less than four days after SARS Customs officials intercepted two bags with 10 rhino horns weighing 24.96kg estimated at R4.99-million at OR Tambo International Airport on Monday.

In yesterday’s incident, the discovery was made when Customs officials followed up on the suspicious bag on a plane bound for Hong Kong. The passenger was identified as the owner of the bag that was put through a scanner.

A physical inspection found the contents to be mould in the shape of 5 rhino horns concealed in 1 – 2 cm hard wax wrapped in paper.

The passenger and the goods have been handed over to the South African Police Service for further investigation.

In a separate incident, Customs officials intercepted consignments destined for Hong Kong with a selection of counterfeit designer label goods weighing 1220kg valued at R1 437 800 at a cargo shed at OR Tambo International Airport.

This included belts, jackets, shirts and sneakers.

The goods were handed over to South African Police Service for further handling.

SARS wishes to thank Customs staff for their focus, discipline and hard work. We are very proud of the dedicated commitment of SARS Customs staff in preventing illicit drugs and other goods from entering or leaving our country.

SARS will continue to work with all stakeholders at our Ports of Entry, including law enforcement agencies, to protect the economy by reducing illicit trade activities.

Submitted by: Sandile Memela / SARSMedia  
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