Rangers in the Kruger National Park (KNP) have discovered the body of a suspected poacher following an unlawful entry into the reserve near Pafuri on September 11.

ALSO READ: Body found in Kruger National Park after illegal fishing search

According to SANParks spokesperson JP Louw, information was received on September 12 regarding two suspected poachers who had entered the park. Preliminary information suggests the suspects encountered a herd of elephants inside the park and fled in different directions, losing contact with one another.

One of the men later returned home and reported that his accomplice was missing, adding that he had heard him screaming during the incident.

Community helps police arrest suspect

The matter was reported to the SAPS and, with the assistance of the local community, one suspect was arrested. The individual admitted to participating in the unlawful entry and accompanied SANParks rangers from the Pafuri Ranger Post to the area where the incident occurred.

ALSO READ: Four suspected poachers shot dead by KNP rangers

Rangers discover body deep in KNP

Rangers followed tracks from the Luvuvhu River for about 6km into the KNP, where they discovered the body of the missing suspect. During the search, rangers also found the remains of a buffalo believed to have been illegally hunted.

The SAPS has been informed and will continue with investigative and forensic processes.