MALALANE – A suspected poacher has been shot in the back and a farm owner arrested for attempted murder on Tuesday.
According to a witness, who prefers to remain anonymous, four men were killing and loading animals onto their bakkie in broad daylight.
“I drive past this farm almost every day and I look at this spot regularly because of the buck that majestically feed there nearly all the time.
“I saw the men pulling one buck through the fence and a little girl standing alongside the road, probably as a cover or distraction. I phoned the police and told them what was happening, and then phoned the farm owner who arrived at the scene armed.
“The suspects then attempted to flee in the vehicle and the owner fired at them, critically injuring one of them.
“The cops arrived at the scene and the owner cooperated peacefully, handing over his firearm and agreeing with proceedings. Three of the suspected poachers were arrested, and one fled on foot.”
The witness stated that they were armed and acting aggressively towards the farm owner and the officials.
Police spokesman Const Bheki Nkosi commented, “Three of the suspects are facing charges of trespass, possession of dead game and illegal hunting. The farm owner faces charges of attempted murder. Two firearms were confiscated for further investigation.
“The young child (7) present at the scene was allegedly the daughter of one of the men.”
According to Nkosi, the men appeared in the Malalane Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday.
