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Environment & Natural Resources News South Africa

Environmental Affairs concerned about rhino killings

The Department of Environmental Affairs has expressed its concern about the ongoing scourge of rhino poaching. To date, a total of 135 rhinos have been killed this year for the illegal trade in rhino horn.

However, the department is encouraged by the increasing number of arrests and convictions made so far to counter rhino poaching. Since January 2012, a total of 89 suspects have been arrested and others have already been sentenced and are serving prison terms.

Five officials arrested

The Kruger National Park (KNP) continues to be the biggest victim of the senseless rhino killing. A suspected poacher was recently shot dead in the Kruger National Park and two suspects were arrested. In addition, a fifth KNP official stationed at Pretoriuskop has been arrested.

SANParks, in conjunction with SAPS are still working to determine if links exist between other internal suspects in relation to the two rhino killed at Pretoriuskop last month. A total of 75 rhinos have been lost to poaching in the Kruger National Park this year.

The department urges South Africans to report incidents of rhino poaching or any tip-offs that could lead to arrest and prevention of illegal killing to 0800 205 005.

Latest rhino poaching figures
SAKNP (SANParks)MNP (SANParks)GPLIMMPNWECFSKZNWCNCTotal
2010146015521757433801333
2011252697431211143460448
2012753017315301810135

Number of arrests
South Africa - ArrestsKNPMNPGPMPECLPNWFSKZNWCNCTotal
201220010290315650189
20118201673234210400232
20106701016736202520165

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