Tragic Death of Kruger Ranger After Arrest of 10 Suspected Poachers
South African National Parks (SANParks) today announced the death of a Field Ranger in what appears to have been an accidental shooting. The incident happened at Lower Sabie in the Kruger National Park (KNP), where the Field Ranger was based and details are still sketchy at this stage, but the South African Police Service (SAPS) […]
South African National Parks (SANParks) today announced the death of a Field Ranger in what appears to have been an accidental shooting. The incident happened at Lower Sabie in the Kruger National Park (KNP), where the Field Ranger was based and details are still sketchy at this stage, but the South African Police Service (SAPS) are investigating the incident.
The Chief Executive Officer of SANParks, Fundisile Mketeni confirmed the incident, and said: “We are saddened by the death of one of our hard working colleagues and pass our sincerest condolences to his family and his associates; this is a big blow to the Rangers Corps, the SANParks family and the anti-poaching campaign… however we will continue where he left off to ensure the safety of our natural assets.”
He did not release the Ranger’s name.
The incident took place after a successful two days in which 10 suspected poachers were arrested and 4 high calibre rifles seized in rhino poaching related incidents.
On 19 March three suspected poachers were arrested by Rangers with the assistance of the K9 unit in Pretoriuskop. A .458 rifle with a silencer, ammunition and an axe, a fresh set of rhino horns and other poaching equipment was recovered.
Shortly thereafter in Stolznek, Rangers made contact with two suspected poachers – one was apprehended while his accomplice managed to escape. A .458 rifle with a silencer, ammunition and other poaching equipment was confiscated.
In another successful Ranger-driven campaign outside the KNP – with the support of the SAPS NIU, – four suspected rhino poachers were arrested and two rhino horns were seized. The suspects were in possession of poaching equipment, ammunition and a heavy calibre rifle.
Finally Crocodile Bridge Rangers conducting a follow-up operation managed to arrest a suspected poacher in possession of a heavy calibre rifle and ammunition.
“We are proud of the work that is being done by our colleagues in the field. This shows the commitment and dedication to their task.
“We are also grateful that most come back safe to continue the campaign on behalf of all South Africans, and the entire globe that visit this part of the world, to witness these magnificent prehistoric animals in their natural habitat,” said Mketeni.
“We will continue where our colleagues who have succumbed to their injuries in the line of duty have left off. To the poachers, be warned, we have eyes all over the park and we will catch you and take your freedom away.”