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...