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Johannesburg - Two of the men tasked with leading anti-poaching operations in the Kruger National Park appeared in the Bushbuckridge Magistrate's Court on charges of rhino poaching on Thursday, SANParks said.
The ranger and a veterinarian technician in the agriculture and forestry department’s animal health directorate in Skukuza were allegedly caught in the act on Wednesday. SANParks spokesperson William Mabasa could not provide their names or their next court date.
Rangers on daily patrol heard three gunshots and went to investigate.
“As they approached the scene they saw two men, one in green ranger uniform and the other one in khaki clothes running toward the direction of a bakkie which was parked nearby.”
A chase ensued and more rangers were called to help. They blocked the bakkie and the two were arrested. A fresh white rhino carcass, two horns, a rifle, and other poaching equipment were recovered.
SANParks chief executive officer Fundisile Mketeni commended the rangers for arresting the pair, and said it was “sad and horrible” that two of their own were allegedly involved in poaching.
