Poachers hit Marakele NP

THABAZIMBI – Marakele National Park, situated outside Thabazimbi, has suffered its first rhino poaching incident in a period of two years.

During a routine patrol, park rangers came across the tracks of three unidentified people which ultimately lead them to the rhino, according to a statement released by SANParks.

A fresh rhino carcass, with its horn removed, was discovered on 17 July in the northern section of the Marakele National Park.

Mr Paul Daphne, SANParks Head of Communications, said, “We are distressed at the loss of this rhino, as SANParks had put in place a number of enhanced security measures to prevent further rhino poaching in Marakele since the loss of a number of animals at the end of 2011. Our ranger teams have been working tirelessly around the clock to ensure that rhino poachers do not establish a foothold in the Marakele National Park.”

South African National Parks field rangers, who were out on a routine patrol, detected the tracks of three unidentified people, and followed the tracks to where they exited the Park. Upon backtracking on the same tracks the carcass of a dehorned rhino bull was found at around 17:00. The crime scene was secured and is currently being investigated by a SAPS forensics team together with SANParks officials.

“We will continue to fight the battle against rhino poaching, and we will be implementing further measures in order to ensure greater rhino security. We are continuing to work together with other role players to develop more effective anti-poaching strategies for the Park and also in the Greater Waterberg Biosphere area.” said Daphne.

The total number of rhino poached in South Africa since the beginning of the year has increased to 488, with 142 alleged poachers having been arrested. Environmental Affairs spokesman, Albi Modise said that the Kruger has beared most of the brunt with a total of 300 rhino poached since January 1. North West follows with 53, Limpopo suffered a loss of 52, KwaZulu-Natal with 43, 35 in Mpumalanga, three in Gauteng and two in Eastern Cape. Modise said that a total of 27 suspected poachers have been arrested in Limpopo, 11 in North West province, nine in Mpumalanga and three in Gauteng. Five were charged with being couriers.

Anyone with information can contact the Poaching tip-off anonymous lines on 0800 205 005, 08600 10111 or Crime-Line on 32211.