The body of a suspected poacher was discovered in the Kruger National Park today.

According to the Kruger’s spokesperson, Isaac Phaahla, a tourist found the body on the side of the road near Pretoriuskop and alerted park management.

“According to initial unconfirmed reports, it seems three individuals had entered the park illegally on January 19 at night, probably with the intention to commit crime. They were attacked by a hippo and one suspect sustained fatal injuries. The other two are suspected to have carried their accomplice’s body to a nearby road, where they left it. The body was spotted by a tourist, who covered it and reported it to the section ranger, who then called the relevant law enforcement authorities and the pathologists, after securing the scene,” says Phaahla.

He adds the matter is being investigated by the police. “Management appeals to whoever took pictures of the body not to share them on any social media platform, as it will be insensitive and might jeopardise further investigations. Management again warns people who enter the Kruger illegally that they face many dangers from wild animals, as well as being arrested by rangers and security staff.”

Meanwhile, Mpumalanga police spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdhluli confirmed they are investigating an inquest of murder. The SAPS requests any members of the public with information to come forward. Contact the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or send information via the My SAPS app.