Polokwane - A suspected rhino poacher was shot dead by rangers at the Kruger National Park in Limpopo on Saturday morning, SA National Parks (SANParks) said.
“Shortly before 1am at the Crocodile Bridge section, our rangers made contact with three suspected poachers who were entering the park from the side of Mozambique,” said spokesman Ray Thakuli.
“During contact, one of the suspects was fatally wounded while the other two escaped back into Mozambique.”
A hunting rifle, ammunition, axes and knives were recovered.
Thakuli said rangers had also come across other poachers on Friday night.
“Two suspected poachers were arrested and we also recovered a hunting rifle and hunting equipment from them,” he said.
It was unclear where and when the pair would appear in court.
A total of 119 people have been arrested at the Kruger National Park this year.
The park has between 8400 and 9600 white rhino. A total of 521 rhinos have been killed on the park this year.
Thakuli said the park was being surveyed to check if any other animals were injured or killed in the latest incidents.
Sapa