Polokwane - The Musina Magistrate's Court in Limpopo has granted bail to the 11 people accused of rhino poaching.
One of the alleged masterminds of the poaching syndicate, 42-year-old Dawie Groenewald, was granted bail of R1 million by Magistrate Errol Luiters. Bail for his wife, 32-year-old Sariette, was set at R100 000.
The couple, who owns Out of Africa Adventurous Safaris, was among nine people arrested by the Hawks on Monday. A tenth suspect was arrested on Tuesday, while one was arrested at court on Wednesday as he arrived to attend the sitting.
Modimolle veterinary surgeon, Karel Toet, was granted bail of R50 000. His wife, Marisa, and his partner in the practice, Manie du Plessis, will both have to fork out R20 000.
The accused, who were represented by four different legal teams, were granted bail on the condition that they hand over their passports to the police. They are also not allowed to leave Limpopo without informing the investigating officer. The case has been postponed until 11 April 2011.
An investigating officer who did not want to be name,said police were expecting to make at least five more arrests.
Meanwhile, police have discovered more rhino carcasses on a farm near Musina. It is believed they were killed for their horns.
