Police in South Africa arrested two people for alleged rhino trafficking after they were found in possession of more than 167 rhino horns on Saturday in the North West province.
A statement by the police says the rhino horns were destined for the South East Asian markets.
A multi-agency team intercepted the two in the Hartbeespoortdam area following a tip off that a vehicle that from a coastal province was carrying several rhino horns.
Police say investigations into the estimated value of the rhino horns are ongoing but described it as a substantial amount.
Police say the two people, aged 57 and 61, will be arraigned at the Brits Magistrate Court on Monday.
According to the World Wildlife Fund, most of Africa’s remaining rhinos are found in just four countries: South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Kenya. Very few African rhinos now survive outside of protected areas and sanctuaries.
The WWF says the greatest threat facing African rhinos is poaching for the illegal trade in their horns.
