Poachers to be pursued into Mozambique

NELSPRUIT – The net is to be drawn tighter over poachers as mutual cooperation between South Africa and Mozambique grows.

SANParks spokesman, Mr Ike Phaahla, said the implementation of the planned operation ” hot pursuit “will be led by retired Gen Johan Jooste.

Rangers, soldiers and others involved in the ongoing war against rhino poachers, will be able to cross into Mozambique to pursue known poachers or those suspected of being involved.

Phaahla said the plan was with South African environmental affairs minister Ms Edna Molewa for final approval and implementation.

He said the strategy would be implemented in conjunction with Mozambican nature conservation authorities.

Up to 90% of poachers in the Kruger National Park are reportedly from Mozambique. Jooste told another media outlet that poachers apparently run across the border and fire victory shots.

“Should a SANParks official or a soldier shoot a poacher across the border it would create an international incident and might be seen as an act of war.”

Phaala added that although the operation had not yet been approved, their Mozambican counterparts had already made five arrests in the last two weeks and had conducted stop-and-search roadblocks.

The latest rhino death toll issued by the Department of Environmental Affairs is 587. Most of the killings – 378 – have taken place in the park.

Phaala concluded that this new breakthrough and the long sentences handed down on poachers would be a great deterrent.