On Wednesday 16 January, South African National Parks (SANParks) announced that three of its field rangers placed at Kruger National Park (KNP) had been arrested on suspicion of rhino poaching.
According to SANParks, the three suspects had been based at the Crocodile Bridge Section in the south-eastern parts of the park closest to the Mozambique border. They are currently in custody pending further investigation until they appear in court.
Rhinos in Kruger. Image credit: Michael Heramb.
The arrests were made thanks to the combined efforts of the SANParks Rangers, Environmental Investigation Unit, South African Police Service, and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation.
SANParks maintains that it is committed to doing everything in its power to fight ‘the scourge of poaching’.
‘It is always very sad when your own staff become involved in poaching, however I want to congratulate the SANParks and SAPS investigators for their diligent work in bringing these members to book. Slowly but surely we are coming to grips with people within our ranks who are sabotaging our efforts in this campaign. We still have confidence in those who are committed and loyal; and would like to encourage them to continue with the excellent work,’ said the KNP Managing Executive, Glenn Phillips.
‘We will not be deterred in ensuring that we are successful in continuing the fight against the scourge of wildlife crime in KNP. Those who are still involved or know of those involved, and would like to give us information, both the CEO of SANParks and I are willing to listen.’
Featured image: Michael Heramb
