S v Chitiyo and Others (CC77/2019)
S v Chitiyo and Others (CC77/2019) [2022] ZAECMKHC 69 (30 September 2022)
The court found that the accused acted in concert with a common purpose to poach rhinos and steal their horns, as evidenced by cellphone records, admissions, physical evidence, and similar fact evidence from prior incidents. The explanations offered by the accused were found to be improbable and false, particularly regarding the possession and concealment of the firearm and ammunition, and the alleged innocent purposes for their travel. The court admitted similar fact evidence, finding it both logically and legally relevant and its probative value outweighing any prejudicial effect. The court…
Source excerpt
- Conspiracy
- Unlawful Possession Of Firearm
- Unlawful Possession Of Ammunition
- Theft Of Rhino Horn
- National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act
- Firearms Control Act