By Kopano Dibakwane
Three suspected rhino poachers were fatally wounded during an encounter with Kruger National Park Rangers in two separate incidents.
According to SANParks(South African National Parks) Head Of Communication Officer, JP Louw, the first incident took place on 14 June in which Park Rangers battled a group of suspects allegedly armed with a high calibre rifle, an axe and other poaching equipment. One suspect was said to have been fatally wounded while the accomplices managed to escape.
Two suspects reportedly died in the second incident which took place on 18 June, also involving a group of armed suspects.
ā The two incidents in the Kruger National Park in a space of four days are a highlight of the dangerous conditions rangers operate under. It particularly demonstrates the threats they face against heavily armed suspected poachers.
ā Incursions on the Eastern boundary are still relentless and anti-poaching units have been under a lot of pressure. SANParks is also exploring numerous interventions which include community mobilisation and support to push back against the continuous poaching threats,ā said Louw.
He added that heavy hunting rifles and ammunition were recovered on the scene in both incidents.
