Lemthongthai v S (849/2013)
Lemthongthai v S (849/2013) [2014] ZASCA 131; 2015 (1) SACR 353 (SCA) (25 September 2014)
The Supreme Court of Appeal found that both the regional court and the high court had misdirected themselves in the grouping and calculation of sentences, resulting in a sentence that was disproportionate and induced a sense of shock. The appellant's manipulation of the permit system and fraudulent conduct warranted a custodial sentence and a substantial fine, but the sentence imposed by the high court was excessive. The court held that the killing of 26 rhinos occurred during one operation and that the rhinos were surplus bulls destined for trophy hunting, distinguishing the case from conven…
Source excerpt
- Illegal Trade In Rhino Horn
- Biodiversity Conservation
- Sentencing Principles
- National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act
- Customs And Excise Act