Breaking! Former Corporal With SANParks And His Accomplice Arrested On Poaching Charges

In what is becoming a common occurrence, South African National Parks (SANParks) announced that a former employee and his accomplice have been arrested following an intelligence driven anti-poaching operation.

The event, which took place in the Tshokwane Section of the park on May 1st, resulted in the apprehension of the perpetrators. The official-turned-offender reportedly was dismissed in 2014, after a disciplinary process on unrelated charges.

“We have been after this particular individual for some time now, and are pleased that he has been captured and we will wait for the law to take its course,”  Managing Executive of the Kruger National Park, Glenn Phillips, said in a statement. “The justice system needs to consider the severe damage that is being done by criminals, not only to the sustainability of our rhino populations but also the long-term threat to the tourism industry of this country, and deliver harsh sentences.”

A high caliber hunting rifle, ammunition, and poaching equipment were also recovered from the yet-to-be-named suspects who will appear in court as soon as charges have been formally filed.

According to SANParks, on May 2^nd, Malelane Rangers, supported by the KNP K9 Unit and Airwing, also arrested two suspected poachers in a separate follow-up operation.