Prosecution of Rhino Poachers: The need to focus on prosecution of the higher echelons of organised crime networks

Abstract

There has been a focus on the prosecution of persons who are arrested in the course of poaching rhinos in national parks, other than the members who form the higher echelons of the networks. This contribution advances the argument that there is need to create a framework that leads to the prosecution of the higher echelons of the organised crime groups, who are usually beyond South Africa's borders. To advance this argument, the author evaluates the classification system of networks, the legal regime and the prosecutorial gaps and the evaluation system of progress employed by the National Prosecuting Authority and the Department of Environmental Affairs. Recommendations for reform follow.