Suspected Rhino Poachers Shot at Kruger Park

Media Statement from the National Media Centre Corporate Communication, South African Police Service

One suspected rhino poacher has been shot dead, two others have been wounded and another arrested in a shootout with SAN Parks rangers at the Kruger National Park. Park rangers noticed four men crossing a river at the Kruger Park and ordered them to stop. The men allegedly shot at the rangers who then returned fire.

One suspected poacher died at the scene and two others sustained gunshot wounds. One was wounded in the leg and arm, and another was wounded in the arm and abdomen. The fourth suspected poacher has been arrested. One rifle and several knives used to hack off rhino horns have been confiscated.

The wounded men are to be transported to hospital, while the arrested suspected poacher is going to assist police arrest at least one more suspect. The arrested man has already admitted to the killing of three rhinos that were killed in the park last week. The surviving poachers will be facing charges of rhino poaching, and shooting at the rangers.