Police in Skukuza arrested two Mozambican nationals, aged 29 and 38, for possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, and for trespassing in the Houtboschrand Ranger area of Kruger National Park (KNP).
Trackers and K9 unit respond swiftly
According to South African Police Services, the arrests followed after field rangers on patrol picked up tracks of three suspected poachers.
The rangers alerted the regional ranger of the Marula North section, who dispatched the K9 unit to assist.
The regional ranger placed helicopters and tracking hounds from Skukuza on standby.
Suspects spotted and apprehended
At around 14:20 on 8 May 2025, the field rangers and K9 unit spotted the suspects near Gorge Block.
The regional ranger deployed helicopters and hounds to the area. After a coordinated search, they located two of the three suspects hiding in a small bush under an antbear burrow.
Police seized a hunting rifle and eleven rounds of ammunition from the suspects. Police arrested them at the scene.
The third suspect managed to evade capture and remains at large. The two arrested men will appear in the Skukuza Periodical Court soon.
Over 100 Rhinos Poached in South Africa in First Quarter of 2025
More than 100 rhinos were poached in South Africa in the first quarter of 2025, continuing the country’s ongoing battle against wildlife crime.
Environment Minister Dion George confirmed that, from January 1 to March 31, 103 rhinos were killed, with 65 poached in national parks.
“The loss of 103 rhinos to poaching in the first three months of 2025 is a stark reminder of the relentless threat to our wildlife,” said George.
What steps should authorities take to stop poaching in protected areas like Kruger National Park?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
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