South Africa’s poaching plight highlighted

Despite being at the frontline in the fight against crime syndicates targeting wildlife and other South African treasures, rangers are ‘outnumbered, outgunned and overlooked’.

This was stated by Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Dr Dion George, speaking during the commemoration of World Ranger Day on Thursday.

He said rangers are the frontline of climate resilience, economic survival, and environmental security.

“This is not a patrol. It is a battlefield. Our rangers fight organised criminal syndicates that smuggle abalone, traffic wildlife, strip protected plants, and steal from future generations,” said George.

“The threat is real and growing. Between January and June 2025, there were 14 lion poaching incidents, several pangolins were seized across provinces, and hundreds of vultures died from poisoning in Kruger National Park. Elephant tusks and rhino horns continue to be stolen,” he said.

George stated that so far this year, 40 suspects have been arrested for crimes against priority species.

The minister also highlighted several steps to bolster ranger capacity.

“The department will provide rangers with better tools, including drones, canine units, digital mapping technology, forensic labs, and faster legal support to tackle organised syndicates.

“We see you. We honour you. We must do better by you. Rangers are not a footnote. You are the frontline. We stand with you,” he concluded.

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