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Media Release: Latest statistics on rhino poaching

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Date: 20th March 2012

The Department of Environmental Affairs is concerned about the ongoing scourge of rhino poaching.  To date, a total of 135 rhinos have been killed 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. 

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

SANParks in conjunction with SAPS are working flat out to determine if links exist between other internal suspects in relation to the two rhino killed in 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. 

Below are the current rhino poaching statistics:

Latest rhino poaching figures:

Number of arrests:

Issued by:
The National Department of Environmental Affairs

Media queries:
Albi Modise; 083 490 2871