By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe and Kopano Dibakwane
A 59-year-old former KNP(Kruger National Park) Field Ranger, alongside his 37-year-old alleged male accomplice, were arrested by the police in Skukuza for illegal hunting and trespassing in the Skukuza Ranger Section of the KNP on Sunday 11 May 2025.
The duo was reportedly nabbed after Field Rangers discovered tracks of four individuals during a routine patrol in Block 19 of the Skukuza area.
According to Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Lt-Col Jabu Ndubane, four African males were spotted during the operation and ran away when they were ordered to stop.
“ Two of the suspects were apprehended, while the other two managed to flee. One of the arrested suspects was identified as a former Field Ranger who has previously worked in the park.
“ He was dismissed in 2021 for conspiracy to commit a crime, a matter which is till being heard in the Skukuza Regional Court. At the time of his arrest, he was found wearing a Ranger uniform,” said Lt-Col Ndubane.
The suspects were allegedly found in possession of impala ram, a warthog, rucksack, food stuffs, as well well as seven snares. They reportedly failed to produce a valid hunting permit.
KNP Communications and Marketing Manager, Ike Phaahla, said the 59-year-old suspect is a well-known serial environmental crime offender who once served as a Corporal for SANParks(South African National Parks).
Phaahla said the Environmental Crime Investigative Unit and SAPS(South African Police Service) have initiated a strong follow-up to ensure that the two other suspects who fled the scene are also brought to book.
“ The week has been a success as these arrests follow another one wherein two suspected poachers in the Joint Protected Zone were arrested on Wednesday 7 May 2025. The arrests will go a long way in boosting the morale of the Rangers Corps in their anti-poaching campaign,” said Phaahla.
Mpumalanga Acting Provincial Police Commissioner, Major-General(Dr)Zeph Mkhwanazi, said the involvement of a former Ranger in such crimes is a serious concern.
“ It is worrying that a former Ranger, who is still appearing in court for previous criminal conduct, has once again been implicated in a similar offence. We trust that the NPA(National Prosecuting Authority) will act decisively,” said General Mkhwanazi.
The two suspects will reportedly appear before the Masoyi Periodical Court to face the said charges and the possibility of more charges being added, was not ruled out.
