Update. The 2 other poachers were also caught! We are super excited with this development and really hope the NPA manages to get a conviction… If not, we will look at pursuing a civil case.
Three nights in a row with poacher incursions. Each time evading our RPU. Frustration beyond belief not to be able to catch these murderers. It looks so easy… Surely it cannot be so challenging? But it is. They move like ghosts in the darkness. Waiting with patience for the moment when they will strike… Then finally this past Monday in the very early hours the RPU teams patience pays off. Seeing suspects leaving the park the RPU team gave pursuit. Many kms later, and a long distance from Pilanesberg, one suspect is caught while 2 get away. In the vehicle is a rifle, axe and , heartbreakingly, 3 sets of Rhino horns. This can only mean these suspects have possibly murdered 3 Rhino.
Sadly, after a chopper search with Nico, 3 carcasses are found in Pilanesberg. Initially we thought they were a bull, cow and calf that were poached, but we have now determined they were 2 cows and one calf. Our search continues… It is heartbreaking to fail these beautiful animals though we are doing all we can to protect them. So much more needs to be done. Not just by RPU teams, but also by government to acknowledge that we have a crisis in our hands. We need a strong legal team to take fight for our Rhinos beyond their deaths.
Awareness is key to gain support. Support is needed to assist the teams on the ground. Financial, or in terms of necessary equipment. Its an endless battle, and we ask that you please not turn your back on these innocent animals.
RIP. Sorry that we have failed you.
