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Rhino Poacher Shot in Confrontation with Rangers at Kruger National Park

Rhino Poacher Shot at Crocodile Bridge, Kruger National Park


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An alleged rhino poacher, discovered with rhino horns, was shot in Kruger National Park during a confrontation with rangers.


Mpumalanga police spokesperson Sgt Thulisile Magagula said patrolling field rangers discovered human tracks and followed them to the southern area of Kruger.


At about 8pm last Thursday, rangers came across the two armed killers.


When instructed to stop, the suspects attempted to flee and tried to scale a nearby fence. During the pursuit, one of the suspects allegedly pointed a rifle at the rangers, prompting them to open fire in self-defence.

“Both suspects managed to jump over the fence and continued to flee. One suspect dropped his rifle and collapsed a short distance away near a sugar cane field. The second suspect escaped into the sugar cane fields and remains at large,” Magagula said.

Skukuza police and a doctor attended the scene.


“The injured suspect was found in possession of a backpack containing two rhino horns and a knife. He was unable to produce any permits authorising his presence in the park or for the possession of the firearm recovered at the scene.”


Charges Against the Suspect


The suspect was arrested and is facing charges of:

  • Trespassing in a national park

  • Illegal hunting

  • Possession of an unlicensed firearm

  • Possession of a dangerous weapon


The injured rhino killer was taken to hospital and will appear in the Masoyi periodical court.


Police are urging anyone with information that could assist in locating the suspect who fled the scene to contact Det-Const Shegofatso Moreku at 082-077-5826, or call the Crime Stop number at 08600-10111.


Rangers Commended


Maj-Gen Zeph Mkhwanazi said:

“We commend the rangers for their swift response and bravery in the face of danger. Anyone who dares to threaten or attack our field rangers will face the full might of the law. Our rangers are not passive observers — they are trained professionals who will defend themselves and our natural heritage.”


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