In a vital breakthrough within the fight towards rhino poaching and flowers and fauna-connected crimes, a 54-12 months-frail Zimbabwean national and wished fugitive, Thomas Chauke, also referred to as Sazu Nkambuya, has been convicted and sentenced to 110 years’ imprisonment by the Makhanda Excessive Court docket.
This follows an intensive and meticulous investigation by detectives from the South African Police Carrier (SAPS) Head Place of job, Stock Theft and Endangered Species (STES) Unit.
Chauke modified into discovered responsible on six counts connected to rhino poaching and flowers and fauna connected crimes, as well to three counts of escaping from appropriate custody.
“The accused was a fugitive, wanted for multiple charges on rhino poaching and wildlife related cases in the Eastern Cape, Gauteng, KwaZulu Natal and North West. He was also linked to several cases, including armed robbery, rape and kidnapping,” the South African Police Carrier (SAPS) acknowledged in a commentary.
The SAPS acknowledged Chauke had beforehand been incarcerated at Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Services and products, the assign he modified into serving five life sentences for violent crimes, together with rape, armed, robbery and kidnapping. He escaped from custody on 9 December 2020, prompting additional investigation and search efforts by STES.
Following his arrest in 2024, the STES team coordinated the centralisation of multiple dockets from varied provinces and liaised with the Nationwide Prosecuting Authority (NPA), to guarantee that efficient coordination and a success prosecution of the accused.
On 28 February 2025, Chauke pleaded responsible to all rhino poaching and wild life connected cases, together with three counts of escaping from appropriate custody, and modified into sentenced to 110 years imprisonment by the Makhanda Excessive Court docket.
“The STES team remains dedicated to safeguarding both wildlife and the community from individuals engaged in criminal activities and ensuring that those responsible are brought to book and held accountable,” the SAPS acknowledged.
