Four poachers arrested after dead rhino found in Kruger National Park

Four rhino poachers have been arrested in the Kruger National Park (KNP) after two incidents over the weekend according to the South African National Parks (SANParks).

The arrests were made by members of the Rangers Corp, assisted by the K9 Unit at the Stolznek section of the park.

TWO INCIDENTS OVER THE WEEKEND

“We are saddened to have lost a rhino over the weekend but are encouraged by the brave actions of our multi-disciplinary anti-poaching teams who successfully took out two rifles from the system and apprehended suspects who are now in custody,” said Gareth Coleman, Managing Executive of the KNP.

He said in the first incident on Friday, the suspected poachers were sitting under a tree and tried to run but they were caught by the rangers.

A high calibre hunting rifle, ammunition, and poaching equipment were seized at the scene and the suspects will appear in court.

The second incident took place on Saturday after rangers heard gunshots and stumbled upon two suspected poachers.

One suspect who had a rifle was fatally wounded while the second managed to evade arrest.

A backpack with two rhino horns was recovered next to the body of the suspect as well as a high calibre rifle and poaching equipment.

A carcass of a male black rhino was found nearby, indicating that the horns were hacked from the animal.

READ: Group of rhino poachers caught in the act, one shot and injured

KINGPINS STILL OUT THERE

“We also appreciate the heavy sentences that the Skukuza Regional court have been handing down recently, it gives motivation to all those who work tirelessly to arrest the suspects found in the park.”

“The kingpins are still out there and we hope they get arrested soon to face the might of the law for their criminality,” said Coleman.