SANParks workers arrested for poaching

Johannesburg - Three SANParks workers were arrested for alleged rhino poaching at the Kruger National Park on Sunday, said SANParks.

The three were based in the lower Sabie area, said SANParks acting CEO Abe Sibiya in a statement.

"[They] were found with a hunting rifle, ammunition, vehicle and poaching equipment during the arrest," Sibiya said, adding that the arrest came as a result of joint operations between SANParks and the police.

The arrest came shortly after the discovery of a freshly killed rhino in the area where the three worked.

Sibiya said the incident was unfortunate.

"It is unfortunate that those trusted with the well-being of these animals are alleged to have become the destroyers of the same heritage that they have a mandate to protect," he said.

It was unclear when they would appear in court.