In the first incident three suspects were arrested after members of the task team received information on their suspected movements.

They were apprehended and a 416 hunting rifle, ammunition an axe and knives were recovered in their possession.

In the second incident in the early hours of Monday, two more suspects were arrested when they were stopped in the Klaserie area in Hoedspruit, according to the police.

A hunting rifle and ammunition was recovered from them.

The suspects are due to appear in different courts on charges of possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition as well as conspiracy to commit rhino poaching.

SAPS Provincial Commissioner in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Nneke Ledwaba, has welcomed the arrests and also applauded the dedicated teams which prevented the crimes from occurring.

Also read: Six suspects arrested for rhino poaching in Gravelotte