Rhino
Image: File
Five suspected rhino poachers were killed near the Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park on Saturday.
Police said they had gathered intelligence that the suspects were travelling along the R618 Road towards a game reserve.
They set up a stop-and-search operation along the same road, and when the suspects arrived at the roadblock, a shootout ensued between police and the suspects. Five suspects were shot and fatally wounded, and they were found in possession of a hunting rifle with a silencer and two pistols. No police officer was injured during the shootout.
The Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife (Ezemvelo) added that among those killed were three Mozambicans and two South Africans. Ezemvelo CEO, Sihle Mkhize, applauded all those who were involved in this operation, stating that “Our partnership with the South African Police Services continues to demonstrate that wildlife crime will not be tolerated in KwaZulu-Natal’s protected areas. While the loss of life is regrettable, we commend the professionalism and bravery displayed by members of the SAPS and Ezemvelo during this operation.
“The individuals killed were allegedly engaged in illegal activities that pose a serious threat not only to our wildlife heritage but also to the safety of field staff, communities, and visitors. Ezemvelo remains committed to supporting law enforcement agencies in the fight against poaching and other environmental crimes while continuing to promote the rule of law and conservation of our biodiversity for future generations,” he said.
Ezemvelo stated that to date, only 13 rhinos have been poached in KwaZulu-Natal, a marked success when compared to the 139 lost by May 2023 and the 33 lost by May 2024. “Ezemvelo will continue to support these critical operations without flinching, ensuring that the safety of our personnel and the survival of our wildlife is guaranteed,” it said in a statement.