Suspected poacher killed in Kruger National Park shootout
A suspected poacher has been shot dead in a gun battle with field rangers in the Kruger National Park.
According to the Mpumalanga police, three field rangers on patrol in the Nwari block came across a group of suspected poachers on Friday evening.
"The suspects reportedly ignored warnings to surrender and instead opened fire on the rangers, prompting an exchange of gunfire", said police spokesperson Jabu Ndubane.
"Due to darkness and poor visibility, the rangers were forced to call off the chase and return to camp.
"On Saturday, rangers resumed their search and discovered the body of a man with gunshot wounds in the Lower Sabie region of the park. A backpack found beside the deceased contained two rhino horns, strengthening suspicions that he was involved in illegal poaching activities.
"Police officers from Skukuza were dispatched to the scene, and the man was pronounced dead by paramedics. His identity remains unknown at this stage, and authorities have launched a manhunt for the two other suspects who managed to flee the scene."
Ndubane confirmed that an investigation is underway and commended the rangers for their role in protecting South Africa’s endangered wildlife.
"Anyone with information that could assist in identifying the deceased or locating the remaining suspects is urged to contact local police."
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