Breaking! Three Rangers Arrested On Suspicion Of Rhino Poaching In Kruger National Park, South Africa

South African National Parks (SANParks) announced today that three Field Rangers were arrested earlier this week on suspicion of rhino poaching in Kruger National Park (KNP).

The Rangers, who were based at Crocodile Bridge, were apprehended on Tuesday and subsequently held in custody for further investigation.

30-year-old Mr. Lucky Mkansi and 32-year-old Mr. Nzima Joe Sihlangu, appeared in the Skukuza Magistrate Court yesterday. They were released on bail fixed at R10,000 each with strict conditions, which include; not travelling without informing the investigating office, barring them from having contact either physically or by electronic means with rangers, as well as being under 24 hours house arrest.

The third Field Ranger arrested is due to appear at the Bushbuckridge Magistrate Court this afternoon.

“It is always very sad when your own staff become involved in poaching, however, we want to congratulate the SANParks and SAPS investigators for their diligent work in bringing these members to book. Slowly but surely, we are coming to grips with people within our ranks who are sabotaging our efforts in this campaign,” KNP Managing Executive, Glenn Phillips, said in a statement. “We still have confidence in those who are committed and loyal; and would like to encourage them to continue with their excellent work. We will not be deterred in ensuring that we are successful in continuing the fight against the scourge of wildlife crime in KNP.”

SANParks internal disciplinary procedures against the corrupt rangers are also underway.

The arrests were a joint effort by the SANParks Rangers, Environmental Investigation Unit, SAPS and Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation.

SANParks remains committed to doing everything in its power to fight the scourge of poaching.