More than 20 suspected poachers arrested in and around KNP
Over 20 suspected poachers were arrested during successful counter-poaching operations in and around the Kruger National Park last week.
SKUKUZA – Last week counter-poaching operations in the Kruger National Park (KNP) resulted in 18 arrests and the recovery of 10 firearms.
SANParks on Friday announced that seven other suspected rhino poachers had been arrested and two firearms recovered just outside the KNP in joint operations with the police.
SANParks Rangers, K9 Units, SAPS and the South African National Defence Force worked together to stop rhino poaching in different sections of the KNP and areas just outside the boundary of the park.
“We are already in the full moon period, with huge numbers of incursions, spoor and many other poaching related activities keeping our anti-poaching teams extremely busy. Poachers beware! We call upon you to weigh the risks of getting caught because you cannot get away with wildlife crime forever, the gap is gradually closing in on you”, warned the Managing Executive of KNP, Glenn Phillips.
He congratulated the personnel involved, which included the SANParks Special Ranger Airborne Response and K9 units. They are making a huge difference in their support for the Rangers and all other anti-poaching teams on the ground and bearing much-needed results.
“SANParks remains committed to doing everything in its power to fight the scourge of poaching. We also take this opportunity to encourage members of the public to report wildlife criminal activities on 013-735-0197 or 076-801-9679; ensuring that those who commit these deeds pay for their sins,” Phillips concluded.
These latest arrests follow those of 14 suspected poachers during operations in the KNP at the end of October.
