The Kruger National Park (KNP) recorded an increase in rhino poaching activities for 2024. Eighty-eight rhinos were poached in the park, which is 10 more than the 78 that were reported in 2023.

January’s statistics also reflected a need for serious concern.

According to the rhino poaching statistics released on March 6 by the the minister of forestry, fisheries and the environment, Dion George, rhino losses in the KNP stood at 67 at the end of November. A significant escalation was experienced during December 2024 with 21 cases, and continued into January this year with a further 17.

ALSO READ: WATCH | Why the Kruger National Park dehorns rhinos

“This escalation in rhino poaching is of great concern. However, actions to combat this are in place. Polygraph testing of staff is continuing in the KNP, in line with its integrity management plan. The Skukuza SAPS Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit and the Mpumalanga Hawks are supporting the investigations, as links have been found between failed polygraph tests and the surge in poaching during December. To date, investigations that have flowed from these polygraph results and subsequent investigations into the individuals have resulted in disciplinary action against two employees in ranger services of the KNP,” George said.

ALSO READ: Chaos at Skukuza Regional Court amid alleged illegal instruction

He applauded the successful convictions related to rhino poaching cases.

“We continue to see some very good convictions in rhino-related cases, with lengthy direct imprisonment terms handed down. However, the time that it takes to finalise many of these cases does remain a concern and, unfortunately, when the suspects are released on bail, the data tells us that a large number of them continue to commit crimes related to rhino poaching and/or horn trafficking.”

ALSO READ: Skukuza court hands hefty sentences to three poachers

George said wildlife trafficking remains a significant global issue that requires an intense and co-ordinated global effort to disrupt the criminal networks.

“We need to continue to integrate and focus our efforts through our existing programmes and forums, including the Integrated Wildlife Zones Initiative, the work of the South African Anti-Money Laundering Integrated Taskforce, the Illegal Wildlife Trade Task Force, and the various task teams residing under the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure Priority Committee on Wildlife Trafficking. We remain committed to the fight against rhino poaching and I believe that a renewed strengthening of our agreements and operational protocols with key countries should be our focus for 2025,” George said.

ALSO READ: Big Joe shoots down social-media rumours of attempt on his life in Hazyview