The Hawks’ arrest of a U.S. rhino activist highlights South Africa’s unwavering commitment to combating wildlife crime and championing conservation efforts.
Limpopo, South Africa (30 December 2023) – The Hawks, South Africa’s Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), have arrested an American man at his ranch in Harmony Reserve, Limpopo Province.
The operation revealed a distressing scene but also serves as a robust message against wildlife crime.
Acting on a tip-off regarding illegal weapons and rhino horns, a fleet of over a dozen vehicles and a helicopter descended upon the Harmony reserve. Major General Jan Scheepers, the Provincial Commissioner of Police, encapsulated the gravity of the situation, stating, “From the helicopter, the place looked like a slaughterhouse. Everywhere you looked, rhinos were lying there dead.”
This prompt and decisive action by the Hawks highlights their dedication to dismantling organised and economic crime, including wildlife trafficking.
The Hawks have consistently demonstrated their commitment to tackling serious crimes that threaten the fabric of society. Their involvement in apprehending individuals involved in wildlife crime not only upholds South Africa’s laws but also sends a clear message to would-be offenders. As the primary arm of the South African Police Services for combating priority crimes, their efforts contribute significantly to maintaining law and order.
The Allegations
Derek Lewitton, a father-of-four and a graduate of Law from Stanford University, moved from the United States to Johannesburg, where he founded Black Rock Rhino with his wife, Xenja Lewitton.
“Across South Africa, dedicated families like ours continue to put everything they have into providing rhino with the safe habitat they need to thrive, and these families are succeeding,” the Black Rock Rhino website says. “While rhino numbers in government-managed reserves have plummeted by 90% in the past 10 years, the families who keep rhino safe on private reserves have more than tripled their rhino populations – growing the 3,000 rhino they protected 10 years ago into an estimated 10,500 rhino today.”
Despite the organisation’s stated objective to conserve rhino species, the recent raid uncovered 26 rhinoceros carcasses and 10 unmarked rhino horns in a safe, alongside illegal firearms and ammunition. Lewitton now faces charges related to alleged wildlife trafficking, firearms offences, and violations under South Africa’s National Environmental Management Act.
While the Lewittons’ organization claims to have made strides in rhino conservation on private reserves, the discovery at Harmony Reserve paints a contrasting picture. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the circumstances leading to the animals’ deaths.
Looking Ahead
As the fight against rhino poaching continues, with 231 rhinos killed for their horns in the first half of 2023 alone, the role of law enforcement agencies like the Hawks becomes increasingly critical. Modern technology and committed individuals play pivotal roles in conservation efforts, but as this arrest indicates, justice must prevail to protect endangered species.
Lewitton’s upcoming bail hearing on the 3rd of January will be closely watched. Regardless of the legal proceedings, this arrest demonstrates the resolve of South African authorities to safeguard our rich biodiversity.