Poacher killed in Kruger – cop held

A rhino poacher was killed and one SA National Parks (SANParks) ranger was wounded in a firefight in the Kruger National Park (KNP) on Tuesday night.

Thirteen suspected rhino poachers were arrested in three different operations on Tuesday. One of them is a police official.

“The arrests were carried out in various parts of the KNP, which has borne the brunt of rhino poaching, but is steadily increasing security and succeeding at apprehending illegal hunters,” said SANParks spokesperson William Mabasa.

“During follow-up operations in the Pretoriuskop section after dark, rangers made contact with a group of suspected rhino poachers. One of the suspects was fatally wounded and his accomplice arrested.

“A high-calibre rifle, ammunition and poaching equipment were confiscated. A field ranger was shot and injured in the foot. He was airlifted to hospital where he has been stabilised. His injury is not life threatening and he is receiving medical treatment and counselling,” Mabasa added.

Five suspected poachers were arrested at Paul Kruger Gate when they attempted to enter the park.

Six suspects were taken into custody at the Phalaborwa Gate, one of whom was a Letaba Rest Camp-based SANParks environmental monitor.

“The suspects were found in possession of a firearm, ammunition and poaching equipment and apparently were on their way into the park.”

Chief ranger Xolani Nicholus Funda congratulated the rangers, saying: “This is a befitting honour to our fallen colleagues, one of whom we laid to rest on Sunday, that we are carrying out our mission to jealously guard our natural assets. Technology, coupled with our members’ determination, is ensuring we successfully apprehend those intending to poach our rhino.

“We urge our neighbours to assist us by reporting any suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies, such as the rangers, who are doing their bit inside, but that needs to be matched by all of us outside the KNP if we are to succeed in getting rid of this scourge.”