For illustration purposes.
An illegal entry into the Kruger National Park (KNP) has ended in the death of a suspected poacher after two men allegedly entered the protected area through the Pafuri area on Friday, September 11.
According to KNP General Manager for Communications and Marketing, Rey Thakhuli, rangers received information on Saturday, September 12, about the alleged illegal entry and the whereabouts of the two suspects.
“Preliminary information suggests that the two suspects encountered a herd of elephants while inside the Park and fled in different directions,” Thakhuli said.
The pair reportedly lost contact during the incident. One of the suspects later returned home and informed others that his accomplice was missing, saying he had heard him screaming after they encountered the elephants.
The incident was reported to the police, which worked with the local community in efforts to locate and apprehend the remaining suspect.
“One suspect was subsequently arrested and allegedly admitted to taking part in the unlawful entry into the Park. He then accompanied SANParks rangers from the Pafuri Ranger Post to the area where the incident was believed to have occurred. Rangers followed tracks from the Luvuvhu River for approximately six kilometres into the Park before discovering the body of the missing suspect,” he said
Thakhuli added that during the search, rangers also found the remains of a buffalo believed to have been illegally hunted.
The discovery would form part of the ongoing investigation into the incident.
“Police has been informed and will continue with the necessary investigative and forensic processes. The incident once again highlights the dangers associated with illegal incursions into protected areas, particularly where people encounter wildlife such as elephants,” he said
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the suspected poaching incident and the death.
