"One team managed to track them down and a scuffle ensued when one of the two suspected poachers tried to disarm an Ezemvelo field ranger using a knife. During that scuffle a colleague of the field ranger managed to shoot the suspect when he realised that the life of his colleague was in danger," said Mntambo.
The other man was able to escape.
Ezemvelo acting CEO Ntsikelelo Dlulane praised the commitment of the rangers.
“The loss of lives is always regrettable but at times our field rangers are left with no choice but to defend themselves when their lives are put in danger. I applaud the skills and commitment of the teams involved in this incident and commend them for protecting our assets," he said.
Mntambo added that 113 rhinos have been killed in KZN this year so far - a reduction from the 121 killed during the same period last year.