ARCC aims to contribute to the improvement and enhancement of intelligence gathering, database management and coordinated dissemination of such information on a multi-agency platform, with a view to aiding the apprehension and successful prosecution of, particularly, criminal syndicate leaders.

The catastrophic change in the ecological functioning of the Planet’s biosphere and along with it, the loss thousands of animal and plant species, is rooted in many causes, including climate change. Africa is as affected as anywhere else, but, on a more immediate scale, it is the illegal harvesting (poaching) and trafficking of Her natural resources that threatens the continents iconic wildlife. This is the issue that most concerns the ARCC.

Wildlife trade is any sale or exchange of wild animal and plant resources by people. It can involve live animals and plants or a diverse range of products that may be traded for food, fuel, fodder, building materials, clothing and ornaments, sport, healthcare, religion, collections or pets. The illegal wildlife trade is estimated to be worth up to US$ 20 billion per annum with rhino horn and ivory fueling terrorist coffers in a number of African conflict zones.

Rhinoceros horns and other products were considered important constituents in traditional Asian medicines and ornamental use dating back to at least 1000 B.C. Contrary to popular myth, rhinoceros horn has never been used in traditional medicine as an aphrodisiac. Until recently rhinoceros horn was in high demand in the Middle East, especially Yemen, for the production of dagger handles or jambiyas. However, the recent upsurge in rhinoceros poaching is most closely linked to increased demand for rhinoceros horn in Asia, most recently Viet Nam, where it carries prestige as a luxury item, as a post-partying cleanser, and as a purported cancer cure.

From 2005 to now, over five thousand rhino have been poached in South Africa. Of these, 81% (4115) have been poached in the Kruger National Park and another 18% (934) in adjacent national parks in Mpumalanga and Gauteng. Sixty rhino (1%) have been poached in the Eastern Cape, but there are indications from recent losses that the poaching pressure is about to increase.

ARCC will cooperate with the principle local and international law enforcement and criminal monitoring agencies,  by providing information and local support for normal and undercover operations. The eradication of corruption; the apprehension of criminal leaders and the appropriate application of the legal system in both source and demand countries is essential.