| 2024/05/28 |
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Media Statement POLOKWANE – A joint operation executed in Dwaalboom has led to the apprehension of two suspects in connection with a rhino poaching incident that took place in the early hours on Monday 27 May 2024 at about 00:15 at a local farm. It is reported that Security Officers of a local Nature Reserve heard gunshots and made further investigations by patrolling at the farm. They reportedly found the carcass of a white rhino with both horns still intact. The members of Modimolle Endangered Species Unit, Dwaalboom police and Wildlife Security Company, Welgevonden K9 Unit, Thaba Tholo Security, SAPARKS officials together with other farm owners using a helicopter were activated to track the responsible suspects for the incident. The operation yielded positive results as two male suspects were subsequently nabbed while in a hiding at the farm at about 02:00. During the arrest, the duo were found in possession of two empty cartridges, two knives, one hunting rifle with four ammunition. Preliminary investigations revealed that the hunting rifle was reportedly stolen at Thabazimbi during August 2023 period. The two suspects, one South African aged 38 and a 39-year-old Mozambican National are expected to appear before the Thabazimbi Magistrate’s Court in due course facing a charges of poaching of special protected animal (white rhino) and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. Police investigations are continuing. Ends
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