Forestry, Fisheries and Environment Minister Dion George has welcomed the sentencing of notorious poaching kingpin Simon Ernesto Valoi, or “Navara”, by a Mozambican court.
Valoi was sentenced to 27 years in prison for his role in leading a rhino-poaching syndicate. His accomplice, Paulo Zukula, was also handed a 24-year sentence.
Valoi, from Massingir, a district along the border of the Kruger National Park, has long been a significant figure in the illegal poaching industry, targeting South Africa’s precious rhino population, George said.
“The Mozambican court found him guilty of multiple serious crimes, including financing terrorism, poaching and money laundering, among others. These crimes have caused immeasurable damage to our natural heritage and have posed significant threats to both wildlife and the safety of those dedicated to protecting it,” George said.
He applauded the efforts of Mozambican authorities, the National Criminal Investigation Service (SERNIC) and the Wildlife Justice Commission, whose co-ordinated intelligence operation led to the apprehension and successful prosecution of Valoi and his accomplices.
George said this sentencing was a critical victory in the ongoing fight against poaching and organised wildlife crime.
"The sentencing of Simon Ernesto Valoi and Paulo Zukula sends a powerful message that those who engage in the destruction of our natural resources will face the full force of the law. We remain committed to working with our international partners to protect our wildlife and ensure that those responsible for such heinous crimes are brought to justice,” George said.
He urged all South Africans to be vigilant and to report any suspected environmental crimes to the authorities.
"Communities play a vital role in the fight against poaching, and by working together with law enforcement agencies, we can make significant strides in safeguarding our environment for future generations," he added.
Cape Times