In a significant victory against rhino trafficking and wildlife related cases, a 54-year-old wanted fugitive Zimbabwean national, Thomas Chauke, also known as Sazu Nkambuya has been convicted and sentenced to 110 years’ imprisonment.
This follows a meticulous and extensive investigation by the detectives attached to the SAPS Head Office, Stock Theft and Endangered Species (STES) which led to successful conviction and sentencing of Chauke on six counts of rhino poaching and wildlife related cases, and three counts of escaping from lawful custody.
On 28 February 2025, Chauke was convicted and sentenced to 110 years imprisonment by the Makhanda High court after pleaded guilty on all rhino poaching and wild life related cases, including three counts of escaping from lawful custody.
The accused was apprehended by Modimolle Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit on 25 March 2024 for unlawful possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
Upon further investigation, the SAPS Head Office, Stock Theft and Endangered Species team uncovered that Chauke was implicated in a spate of serious criminal activities across provinces, including rhino poaching and unlawful possession of firearms.
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.
Chauke, previously serving time at Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Services, had escaped from prison on 09 December 2020 where he was serving five life term sentences for heinous crimes including rape, armed, robbery and kidnapping, prompting further investigation and search efforts by STES.
In addition to these charges, the accused was under investigation for rhino poaching across the country, as well as illegal possession of firearms.
Upon the successful apprehension of Chauke last year, the STES team worked diligently to centralise the dockets from provinces and liaised with the National Prosecution Authority (NPA) for effective coordination and successful prosecution of the accused.
The STES team remains dedicated to safeguarding both wildlife and the community from individuals engaged in criminal activities, ensuring that those responsible are brought to book and held accountable.