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Three suspected poachers have been arrested in Paulpietersburg, KwaZulu-Natal, after allegedly killing a rhino and removing its horn at a local game reserve. The arrests took place on Friday morning, following growing concerns about wildlife crime in the region.
According to police, the suspects – aged between 30 and 50 – are alleged to have overpowered and robbed two security guards at the reserve, stealing five rifles and a cellphone before fleeing.
Coordinated arrest
Police spokesperson Lt-Col Paul Magwaza said the suspects were found in possession of two unlicensed rifles and a rhino horn at the time of their arrest.
“While busy with their criminal activity, they were distracted by the sound of an alarm which had been activated. They ran away from the scene, leaving a shotgun next to the rhinoceros carcass,” Magwaza explained.
He added that police were notified immediately and launched a joint operation with private security companies to track the suspects.
“Police members, in partnership with private security personnel, worked tirelessly throughout the day searching for the suspects. With the help of community members, the suspects were arrested as they took refuge in the bush,” Magwaza said.
Weapons and rhino horn recovered
During the operation, police seized an R5 rifle, a .303 rifle, and the recovered rhino horn. The suspects’ vehicle was also impounded.
The trio has been charged with armed robbery, rhino poaching, and possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. They appeared in the Vryheid Magistrate’s Court on Monday.
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