Court sentences former KNP field rangers for rhino poaching

Two former Kruger National Park field rangers have each been sentenced to 20 years’ direct imprisonment for rhino poaching.

The Skukuza Regional Court yesterday handed down the sentences to Lucky Mkanzi (30) and Nzima Joel Sihlangu (32) marking a victory in the fight to protect this near-extinct species.

Mkanzi and Sihlangu, stationed at the Crocodile Bridge section of the park at the time, were convicted on three charges, including conspiracy to commit an offence and the killing of two rhinos. The incidents occurred between December 25 and 30, 2018, at night while both rangers were on day shift.

According to the NPA spokesperson for Mpumalanga, Monica Nyuswa, suspicions arose when their supervisor received a tip-off about their involvement in the rhino killings. The supervisor then requested tracking records for the vehicle used by the accused during that period.

“Investigations revealed the vehicle had been stationary at the location where the rhinos were found dead, providing key evidence linking the rangers to the poaching incident,” Nyuswa says.

State prosecutor Lot Mgiba presented testimony from the accused’s supervisor and a tracking expert, both of who confirmed the vehicle’s movements. It was also revealed that Mkanzi and Sihlangu were not authorised to be on night duty without prior approval.

During a raid on Sihlangu’s home, police uncovered a sum of cash believed to be payment for the rhino horns.

“After reviewing the evidence, the court found the pair guilty on all charges,” Nyuswa adds.

The duo received four years’ imprisonment for conspiracy and 10 years for each rhino they killed. The sentences will run concurrently, leading to an effective 20-year sentence. The court also ordered that the cash found in their possession be forfeited to the state.

The NPA welcomes the sentencing, reiterating its commitment to tackling environmental crime.

“Poaching is a serious crime that poses a significant threat to endangered species and has lasting consequences for the environment and biodiversity,” Nyuswa adds, stressing the importance of holding offenders accountable to safeguard wildlife for future generations.