Zuko Komisa

The Makhanda High Court has handed down a hefty 110-year prison sentence to Thomas Chauke, a 54-year-old Zimbabwean national and long sought-after fugitive.
Chauke, also known as Sazu Nkambuya, was convicted on multiple charges related to rhino poaching and other wildlife crimes, as well as escaping from lawful custody.
The successful prosecution follows a thorough and protracted investigation conducted by dedicated detectives from the South African Police Service (SAPS) Head Office’s Stock Theft and Endangered Species (STES) Unit.
According to a statement released by the SAPS, Chauke was a prime target, wanted in connection with numerous rhino poaching and wildlife-related cases spanning several provinces, including the Eastern Cape, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and North West. Shockingly, his criminal history also linked him to violent crimes such as armed robbery, rape, and kidnapping.
The SAPS further revealed that Chauke had previously been serving five life sentences at Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Services for these heinous violent offenses. However, he managed to escape from custody on Wednesday, 9 December 2020, prompting an intensified investigation and relentless pursuit by the STES unit.
The culmination of these efforts came on Monday, 28 February 2025, when Chauke pleaded guilty to all charges related to rhino poaching and wildlife crimes, as well as the three counts of escaping from lawful custody. This admission led directly to the 110-year prison sentence handed down by the Makhanda High Court, sending a strong message to those involved in wildlife crime.
“The STES team remains dedicated to safeguarding both wildlife and the community from individuals engaged in criminal activities and ensuring that those responsible are brought to book and held accountable,” the SAPS affirmed in their statement.
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