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Speaking at the official handover ceremony, Dr Mabunda said this gesture by Sandown Motor Holdings Group has shown… “your patriotism for our beloved country. Your involvement through this sponsorship signifies a constructive approach in the fight against rhino poaching and is highly gratifying.”

Dr Mabunda said the current rhino poaching statistics for the Kruger National Park (KNP) stand at 137. “It is indeed worrying that we are still losing such a high number of rhinos but the increasing number of successful arrests and steeper sentences imposed on convicted criminals is encouraging.” The KNP has so far arrested 38 suspected poachers. This is not only thanks to the increased cooperation from ordinary members of the public but from corporate South Africa joining the fight against rhino poaching.

Ms. Veronica van der Linde, the Dealer principal of Chrysler Jeep Dodge (CJD) Constantia Kloof and representative of Sandown Motor Holdings group said “We, as a company have recognised that the protection of the environment is everyone”s responsibility and critical for our existence as human beings.”

She said the poaching and killing of our rhinos is one of those horrible human acts driven mainly by a financial gain. “By sponsoring this vehicle, Sandown Motors is joining the fight against the killing of these animals and we trust that the vehicle with its advanced features and capabilities will be a useful tool for the rangers in their on-going battle with poachers.”

Speaking at the same ceremony Peter Zietsman, Chairperson, West Rand Region of SANParks Honorary Rangers said this is yet another important tool to be used in the fight against poaching. “We are elated to be part of the solution as ordinary South Africans in the fight against the scourge of rhino poaching – the bleeding has to stop sooner than later.”

(FROM LEFT) Ms. Veronica van der Linde, the Dealer principal of Chrysler Jeep Dodge (CJD) Constantia Kloof, hands over the keys of the sponsored Jeep for anti-poaching efforts in the Kruger National Park to Dr. David Mabunda, SANParks CEO while Peter Zietsman, Chairperson, West Rand Region of SANParks Honorary Rangers looks on.

The brand new anti-poaching Jeep Sahara Unlimited 3.6 V6 valued at approximately R450 000.

Dr. David Mabunda and Ms Veronica van der Linde unveiling the Jeep sponsored by Sandown Motor Holding Group.

Issued by:
Gabrielle “Gabby” Venter
Manager: Media and Stakeholder Relations, SANParks
Tel: (012) 426 5065 Cell: 083 825 9435
email: [email protected]

For Media queries contact:
Reynold “Rey” Thakhuli
General Manager: Media, Events & Stakeholder Relations , SANParks
Tel: (012) 426 5170 Cell: 073 373 4999
email: [email protected]