MALALANE – It is reported that a rhino was shot and killed by poachers between the borders of Marloth Park and the Kruger National Park (KNP) this past Thursday. According to Marloth Park ranger Mr Elfas Mhori, campers at the Henk van Rooyen Caravan Park heard a gunshot on Thursday night but were unaware on how to proceed with the report.
He said, “On Friday the guests realised the seriousness of what had happened and they then informed security at the caravan park. They then told Marloth rangers of the situation. A quick investigation indicated that the shot had been fired within the KNP, so we informed the rangers of the incident immediately.”
KNP spokesman Mr William Mabasa said, “The carcass was discovered by rangers on Friday, the horn of the animal was still intact but it is clear that the rhino had been shot.” He added that a calf had been found with the body. “A calf was found with the body, it has since been removed and is currently being kept at Skukuza. The team is searching for a suitable rehabilitation centre.” said Mabasa. Corridor Gazette asked Mabasa if the poor condition of the Marloth Park fence had any contribution to the elevation of rhino poaching in the southern part of the KNP. He said, “We are losing rhino all over the country, we cannot say that the fence has or does not contribute, it is generalising the fact that the fight is all over. This year alone the KNP has lost 400 rhino.”
Report poaching to the Hawks Rhino Hotline on 071-348-8630 or the 24-hour emergency call centre on 013-735-0197/076-801-9679.
