| 2025/03/22 |
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Media Statement
NELSPRUIT– The Police at Skukuza are investigating a shooting incident after a suspected poacher was fatally wounded by Field Rangers inside the Kruger National Park (KNP) on Friday, 21 March 2025. The Section Rangers of the SANPARKS at the Lower Sabie Section are said to have come into contact with two suspected poachers around 15:00 whilst on patrol duties. It was during this period when the two were spotted and, instead of stopping, the two ran into the bushes. Tracing of the two individuals by the Rangers commenced until they were spotted again at about 18:15. This time around, the two alleged poachers reportedly started shooting towards the Rangers. In response, the Rangers returned fire and it was during this time where one alleged poacher got shot whilst another one got away. Field Rangers are said to have summoned for Medical Personnel and also alerted the Skukuza SAPS. The injured man unfortunately succumbed to his injuries before he could receive assistance. During processing of the scene, a hunting rifle with two ammunition as well as a knife were found in his possession. The paramedics certified him dead at the scene. The circumstances surrounding this incident form part of the investigation by the Police. The man has not yet been identified. This incident is similar to another one that reportedly occurred in Malelane area of the Kruger National Park on Tuesday, 18 March 2025 whereby one alleged poacher was fatally shot. During that incident, two alleged poachers were spotted by the Field Rangers. A shootout ensued between the Rangers and the alleged poachers. One vanished into thin air and the other one sustained some injuries then later succumbed. A hunting rifle with ammunition were also found in his possession. The alleged poacher has also not been identified.
Both incidents are still under investigation.
Enquiries:
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