The idea of making a fake rhino horn is being attempted, but, at the time in which this book is set, it was a pipe dream. The procurement of a real rhino horn and a sample of blood was/is necessary for DNA synthesis. The chase across Central Africa is an integral part of the story. Interpol are always one step behind. There is a huge demand for rhino horn (and elephant ivory) in the Middle and Far East due to the misconception that the horn has aphrodisiac and medicinal properties. All the characters are fictional, though some may bear a passing likeness to friends in Europe, Africa and the Far East.