Two Field Rangers Arrested in Kruger National Park

Two Field Rangers have been arrested in the Kruger National Park, on charges related to Fraud, Money Laundering and Corruption.

South African National Parks (SANParks) said in a statement that it had today, 23 April 2022, been informed of the arrests which were the result of an extensive investigation led by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations (DPCI) – otherwise known as the HAWKS – with support from Skukuza Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit.

The arrests form part of an ongoing external investigation and no further details are current available, SANParks said.

The Kruger’s Managing Executive, Gareth Coleman, said:

“We are proud of the teamwork and dedication of our Rangers Corp, our Aviators, K9 Units and ECI Unit, and our partners in other law enforcement agencies who execute their responsibilities in extremely difficult conditions.

« It is unfortunate that some of our employees are alleged to have chosen to become involved in illegal activities. As these arrests indicate, law enforcement agencies are closely monitoring our actions.

«When employees are exposed it has far reaching consequences for themselves, their families and their own communities.

«Only through discipline, honesty and teamwork, combined with the desire to serve the people of our country selflessly, will we be able to stem the tide of rhino poaching in KNP.»