FOUR foreign nationals were sentenced to 15 years imprisonment each for poaching 303 specimens of the critically endangered Clivia mirabilis in the Namakwa region. The plants have an estimated street value of up to R30-million.
The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has welcomed the conviction and said that it sends a strong message to those involved in environmental crime and that it was critical to protect South Africa’s biodiversity.
The Calvinia Regional Court handed down 15-year direct imprisonment sentences to the accused for illegally harvesting 303 specimens of the critically endangered Clivia mirabilis, a rare species endemic to parts of the Northern and Western Cape and highly sought after in the illicit global plant trade.
The four individuals – Mark Daddy (43), Raphael Mhashu (25), Simbarashe Charanelura (33), and Elton Ngwanati (34) – were arrested on 20 April 2024 after being found in possession of the endangered specimens.
The plants, commonly known as the miracle bush lily or Oorlogskloof bush lily, are estimated to carry a black-market value of between R6-million and R30-million.
They were convicted on charges relating to the illegal harvesting of protected plant species and breaches of South Africa’s immigration legislation.
The conviction reflects a broader trend of organised criminal syndicates expanding their focus beyond succulents to exploit a wider range of South Africa’s rare flora, driven by high international demand, particularly in Asian markets.
These crimes threaten biodiversity, disrupt ecosystems, and push already vulnerable species closer to extinction.
“This conviction is a critical milestone in our fight against environmental crime,” said George. “It sends a clear message: those who profit from exploiting our natural heritage will face serious consequences. The Department will continue to strengthen enforcement, build international partnerships, and work closely with police and prosecutors to stop the illegal trade in wildlife and plants.”
He commended the South African Police Service (SAPS), the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), and all involved officials – including investigating officer Constable Danver Matthys and prosecutor Darryl Bromkamp – for their dedication in securing this outcome
The Minister confirmed that the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is actively investigating related cases of plant poaching. He called on the public to report suspicious activity and support efforts to protect South Africa’s natural heritage for future generations.
