Suspected zebra smuggling gang nabbed

Beitbridge Reporter
April 11, 2008

TWO men believed to be part of a zebra poaching and smuggling syndicate were arrested at Boomerage Farm in Matobo district after they were caught in possession of several zebra skins and carcasses worth billions of dollars.
Police spokesman for Matabeleland South, Inspector Tafanana Dzirutwe, said the two suspects, Jabulani Khumalo (32) and Mlungisi Nkomo (age unknown), were arrested on Saturday at a village near the farm, following a tip-off from members of the public.
“The two suspects were arrested at a homestead near Boomerage Farm following a tip-off, resulting in the recovery of several zebra carcasses and skins hidden in a house,†he said.
“In fact, the two suspects connived and went to Boomerage Farm where they killed a zebra and skinned it before hiding the skin.â€
The suspects are expected to appear in court soon on charges of contravening a section of the Parks and Wildlife Management Act (poaching).
Insp Dzirutwe said the suspects could be linked to a zebra poaching syndicate which is operating in the province.
“As police we have intensified the fight against the poaching of wildlife, especially zebra, which are reportedly being smuggled into South Africa where there is a ready market ahead of the 2010 Soccer World Cup,†he said.
“We continue to urge members of the public to assist us with information, which could lead to the arrest of other suspects involved in poaching. However, as police we will continue to work tirelessly to safeguard the country's natural resources.â€
The arrest comes barely a week after two West Nicholson men were also arrested for allegedly killing four zebras which they intended to smuggle into South Africa through Beitbridge Border Post.

quote:

several zebra skins and carcasses worth billions of dollars

Where the heck did they store billions of dollars worth of Zebra skins and carcasses??? Oh wait, those are Zim dollars.......

I honestly had an fleeting impression of a giant warehouse full of zebra skins until I realized the article was from Zim.