A Limpopo farmer who was found in possession of rhino remains, has been fined R1m by the Lephalale Regional Court, police said on Wednesday.
Freitas Antonio Xavier, 57, who was arrested in January last year, was found with eight rhino feet, seven carcasses, two hides, two rhino heads, and one decomposed carcass stored in his freezer.
Xavier pleaded guilty and was sentenced to a fine of R1m or 10 years in jail.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo said: "The accused was convicted and sentenced on charges of hunting of specially protected animals without permit, possession... of rhino parts without permit and selling of rhino meat without a permit."
Provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Nneke Ledwaba said Xavier should be arrested and made to account for crimes against wildlife.
The police have urged anyone who might have more information about the poaching syndicate to contact Warrant Officer Johannes Jurgens van Heerden on 082 814 4300.
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