A former SANParks field ranger has been given a ten-year sentence after he shot and killed a rhino with his official firearm in the Kruger National Park (KNP).

Eckson Musa Matumbu, who was based in the Nwanetsi section, 25km east of Satara Camp, was arrested in February 2020 for shooting a rhino with the intention of selling the horn.

He allegedly used non-issued ammunition to cover his tracks.

Matumbu was initially granted bail, but it was later withdrawn out of fear that he would pose a threat to witnesses.

In court, Matumbu claimed self-defence as the animal was charging at him. He however failed to clarify why he used non-issued ammunition instead of ammunition issued to him by the park.

He was found guilty of carrying out a restricted activity involving a threatened or protected species in a national park, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years.

Matumbu was also declared unfit to possess a firearm in terms of Section 103 of the Firearms Control Act.

KNP managing director Oscar Mthimkhulu says he is pleased with the court’s decision, and hopes this will deter other rangers from following in his footsteps.

“This demonstrates that the law is not selective and deals with everybody who is involved in criminal activities.

“I hope our colleagues will learn from this case… Regardless of their position, the law will catch up with them if they commit a crime,” he adds.