'Poaching kingpin' back in court

Alex Eliseev | 8 Hour(s) Ago

A suspected rhino poaching kingpin should know on Thursday whether he will be granted bail by the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court.

Chemlong Lemtongthai launched his bail application on Wednesday and convinced the court the onus is on the state to prove why he should be denied his freedom.

The Thai national is allegedly linked to a syndicate which hired prostitutes to pose as trophy hunters in a bid to export numerous horns.

The court is expected to hear arguments from both sides and to rule on whether Lemtongthai will be set free.

He argues the state’s case is weak, he is not a flight risk and he is willing to pay R100,000 for bail.

But investigating officer PW van Heerden told the court this amount will be “peanuts” for Lemtongthai.

He said a major investigation is still underway into the syndicate.

Animal activists are likely to return to court to hear judgement.