Three South African men were handed heavy sentences related to rhino poaching after they were caught by SANParks rangers including a K9 member, in the Kruger National Park (KNP).

The KNP managing executive, Gareth Coleman, says Isaac Zitha (41), Oscar Ndlovu (38) and Richard Mkhombo (39) were convicted of two incidents, one in the Stolznek section of the park in 2017 while Zitha and Ndlovu also received punishment for an incident in Kingfisherspruit in 2018, while they were out on bail on the first matter.

Linked to two incidents of poaching

In 2017, rangers followed the sounds of gunshots in the Stolznek area they were patrolling. Ndlovu was found hiding and was arrested first. A K9 colleague were called in, who led them to two other suspects Isaac and Given Zitha, and the recovery of a backpack.

“The backpack contained a pair of rhino horns and a rifle, which were linked to a carcass found nearby. The accused were granted bail. Given Zitha absconded and is still being sought by the police to face trial,” says Coleman.

In 2018, rangers found tracks in the Kingfisherspruit section of the KNP. The tracks led to the Manyeleti Game Reserve where Ndlovu was arrested.

The K9 unit was again called in and lead to the arrest of Zitha and Mkhombo. They had a backpack with a pair of rhino horns and a rifle inside in their possession. The rhino horns were linked to a carcass found nearby.

Teamwork reaps rewards

Coleman says the sentence handed down in court is evidence that collaborative work on criminal matters among different units bears fruits, and sends a strong message to criminals.

“The members of the SAPS, the prosecution and the Rangers Corp have been diligent in handling these cases and presented fool-proof evidence to the courts. The prosecution also made a compelling argument on our behalf for harsh sentences. We are delighted by the outcomes and hope the remaining suspect will be apprehended and face trial,” Coleman says in a statement.

For the incident in 2017, Mkhombo, Zitha and Ndlovu were sentenced to three years imprisonment each for trespassing, six years for the possession of an illegal firearm, two years for the possession of illegal ammunition and 11 years for killing an endangered species and being in possession of an axe.

Zita and Ndlovu received a further 44 years for the 2018 incident.

Some of the sentences are to run concurrently.

Another harsh sentence

On Friday, Mozambican national Sam Khoza (47), was sentenced to nine years’ imprisonment after he was captured by rangers in the KNP in 2020. Khoza, who was injured during a shootout with rangers, was charged with the possession of a prohibited firearm and illegal ammunition. Charges of being in the country illegally was later added.