The accused were previously convicted on various counts, by the same court and the matter came for sentencing on a later date. The Criminal Law Amendment Act 105 of 1977, prescribes a discretionary minimum sentence of 15 years imprisonment per count for amounts of more than R500 000; for the ten counts on theft of rhino horns. The accused argued that this provision was not applicable since the State had failed to ascertain the value of the stolen horns and argued further that the value of the horns exceeded R500,000. The court found that the State failed to ascertain the value and that the minimum sentencing provision was thus not applicable. The court found that the accused were first offenders with minor children and family commitments. The court noted that none of the accused were remorseful. The court also considered the interests of the community and the gravity of the offences; and imposed the sentences on the accused on each count.