Police in KwaZulu-Natal, assisted by private security, apprehended three alleged rhino poachers in the early hours of Saturday morning in the small town of Paulpietersburg.

The suspects, aged between 34 and 50 years, were found in possession of two unlicensed rifles and one rhino horn after a brazen heist at a local game reserve.

According to reports, the three men, disguised with face-concealing masks, infiltrated the reserve on Friday morning, where they threatened and bound two security guards.

Police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Paul Magwaza, said during the assault, the suspects made off with a shotgun, an R5 assault rifle, and the guards’ mobile phones before greedily turning their sights on a rhino.

He said the poachers shot the majestic animal and hastily sauntered away with its horn, but their criminal undertaking was cut short by the piercing sound of an alarm that had been triggered.

Realising they were in danger, the suspects abandoned the rhino carcass, leaving the shotgun behind as they made their escape into the nearby bush. Fortunately, the swift response of the police was already in motion, as they were alerted to the unfolding incident. Upon their arrival at the scene, the perpetrators had already fled, precipitating a painstaking search throughout the day.

Collaborating closely with private security personnel and local community members, the police launched an intensive manhunt. Their relentless efforts paid off when the suspects were eventually located hiding in the brush. Police officers discovered an R5 rifle, a .303 rifle, and the crucial rhino horn in their possession during the arrest.

Magwaza said the vehicle the suspects had used to reach the game reserve was seized in a subsequent operation.

Consequently, the trio now faces a slew of serious charges, including armed robbery, rhino poaching, and possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. They are scheduled to appear in court at the Vryheid Magistrates Court on Monday, July 28. 

IOL

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