Mozambican poacher shot, arrested at Kruger National Park - second suspect at large
A hunting rifle and a bag containing ammunition and an axe recovered from the suspected poacher following a shootout in the Kruger National Park.
Image: SAPS
A Mozambican national has been arrested after he was caught illegally hunting in the Kruger National Park (KNP) on Monday.
Police in Mpumalanga said the 47-year-old sustained injury following a shootout with authorities.
Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane said field rangers in the Houtboschrand area detected tracks of two individuals suspected of unlawful entry into the park.
Regional ranger of the Marula North Section deployed the K9 Unit and requested helicopter support from Skukuza.
Ndubane said shortly after being dispatched, the K9 Unit found the suspects.
“During the encounter, one suspect was shot and injured, while the other fled the scene,” said
The injured suspect was found in possession of a hunting rifle, six rounds of ammunition, and an axe.
He was arrested by Skukuza police and transported to the hospital, where he remains under police guard.
Police confirmed that the man will appear in the Masoyi Periodical Court, charged with illegal hunting and trespassing.
“Police have not ruled out the possibility of additional charges, as the suspect is undocumented and believed to be in the country illegally,” said Ndubane.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, praised the swift action by rangers and police.
“Rangers and police will continue working tirelessly to ensure the park remains safe from poachers,” he said.
“The Kruger National Park is a vital part of our heritage, a source of learning for future generations, and an important contributor to our provincial economy through tourism. We will not allow anyone to destroy what we treasure.”
Police are continuing the search for the second suspect.
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