Former ranger and accomplice caught in illegal hunting operation at Kruger Park
Two arrested for illegal hunting in Kruger National Park, including former ranger.
Image: File
Two suspects, including a former field ranger facing criminal charges, were arrested in the Skukuza section of the Kruger National Park on Sunday for illegal hunting and trespassing.
The arrests were made after field rangers patrolling Block 19 in the Skukuza area discovered tracks belonging to four individuals.
Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane said that during the operation, they spotted four men and ordered them to stop. The suspects fled, prompting a chase by the rangers
Two of the four men were eventually apprehended, while the others escaped.
"One of the arrested suspects was identified as a former field ranger who had previously worked in the park. He was dismissed in 2021 for conspiracy to commit a crime," Ndubane.
That case is still before the Skukuza Regional Court. The suspect was found wearing a ranger uniform at the time of his arrest.
Ndubane confirmed that the suspects were in possession of illegal wildlife products, including one impala head, a dead warthog, and seven snares. They failed to produce a valid hunting permit when questioned.
Skukuza police officers arrived at the scene and formally arrested and charged the suspects.
They are expected to appear before the Masoyi Periodical Court on Monday, on charges of illegal hunting and trespassing. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of adding further charges.
Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, voiced concern over the involvement of a former ranger.
“It is worrying that a former ranger, who is still appearing in court for previous criminal conduct, has once again been implicated in a similar offence," said Mkhwanazi.
"It clearly shows a lack of remorse. We trust that the National Prosecuting Authority will act decisively."
Police investigations continue, and efforts to locate the remaining two suspects are ongoing.
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