Police at Skukuza are investigating a shooting incident after a suspected poacher was fatally wounded by field rangers inside the Kruger National Park on Friday, 21 March.
The Section Rangers of the SANParks at the Lower Sabie Section came into contact with two suspected poachers around 15:00 while on patrol duties.
Returned fire
The pair were spotted and, instead of stopping, ran into the bushes.
Tracing of the two individuals by the rangers commenced until they were spotted again at about 18:15.
This time around, the two alleged poachers reportedly started shooting at the rangers.
In response, the rangers returned fire.
One alleged poacher was shot while another one got away.
Field rangers summoned for medical personnel and also alerted the Skukuza SAPS.
The injured man succumbed to his injuries before he could receive assistance.
During processing of the scene, a hunting rifle with ammunition as well as a knife were found in his possession.
Paramedics certified him dead at the scene.
The man has not yet been identified.
The circumstances surrounding this incident form part of the investigation by the police.
This latest incident is similar to another one that occurred in Malelane area of the Kruger National Park on Tuesday, 18 March during which one alleged poacher was fatally shot.
During that incident, two alleged poachers were spotted by the field rangers.
A shootout ensued between the rangers and the alleged poachers.
One managed to escape while the other one died from his injuries.
A hunting rifle with ammunition were also found in his possession.
The alleged poacher has also not been identified.
Both incidents are still under investigation.
How sorry – if at all – do you feel for poachers shot dead?
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