Kruger National Park

Media Release: Suspected ranger arrested for poaching in the KNP

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Date: 26th July 2011

The CEO of South African National Parks (SANParks), Dr David Mabunda announced today that one of the Ranger Corps, based in the Kruger National Park (KNP) was arrested for suspected rhino poaching activities yesterday, July 25, 2011.

The ranger, who has yet to appear in court and therefore cannot be named, was arrested after he was linked to previous rhino poaching incidents that took place in the Park.

“Internal disciplinary and criminal processes against the Ranger will run concurrently and we hope for a speedy trial and believe that justice will prevail. Rangers are guardians and a key force in protecting these rhinos; those who do not aspire to these values should be flushed out and brought to book”, said Mabunda.

This year alone a total of 131 suspected poachers have been arrested around the country, of which 65 of them were arrested in the KNP. Since January this year, throughout the country, 15 suspected poachers have been killed and 9 injured in clashes with authorities in the KNP.

For previous media statements on this matter please go to www.sanparks.org

Issued by:
KNP Public Relations Department on behalf of SANParks Corporate Communications

Enquiries:
wanda mkutshulwa – Head of Communications, SANParks, Tel: (012) 426 5201, Cell: 082 908 2692, e-mail: wandam@sanparks.org