Rhino poacher killed in Limpopo

10 June 2013 - 16:16 By Sapa
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African rhino horn. File picture.
African rhino horn. File picture.
Image: Reuben Goldberg

A suspected rhino poacher was shot dead and another arrested at a game farm in Limpopo, police said on Monday.

"A worker, who usually puts out feeding for the rhinos, spotted strange tracks in the Cumberland area on Saturday," said spokeswoman Colonel Ronel Otto.

"Farmers in the area, as well as members of the police and trackers, gathered and started following the tracks of what was suspected to be four poachers."

The tracks were followed for more than 24 hours, and two private helicopters also assisted with the search.

"One of the suspects was spotted sitting under a tree. He attempted to fire at one of the helicopters circling in the area; he also fired shots in the direction of the team tracking him," said Otto.

The man, a Mozambican national, was shot and died on the scene.

A Zimbabwean national was also arrested later on the farm.

Police confiscated a hunting rifle and ammunition, as well as an axe. The serial number of the rifle was filed off, and the origin of the weapon is still being investigated, Otto said.

The arrested suspect is expected to appear in the Thabazimbi Magistrate's Court soon to face charges of rhino poaching and possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.

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