Ranger fatally shot by a ricochet bullet

The accidental shot that killed a Kruger National Park (KNP) ranger on Monday ricocheted off the cement floor of the ranger’s office in Lower Sabie.

The shot came from a poacher’s rifle held by a police officer, Lowvelder reported.

The ranger, George Mdaka, 30, was still alive when he arrived by chopper at Mediclinic Nelspruit on Monday evening.

He was stabilised by a doctor in the park before being transported to hospital.

William Mabasa, acting head of communications of SANParks, confirmed he passed away soon after his arrival.

He said Mdaka had transported poachers apprehended during an operation to the ranger’s office.

Police arrived to arrest them. One of the police members secured the poacher’s weapon.

He thought that all the rounds of ammunition had been used up. He pointed it at the floor not knowing there was still a round left.

The shot hit the cement floor and the bullet ricocheted into Mdaka’s body.

Michael Smit of the Independent Police Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) in Mbombela told Lowvelder that the case would be investigated by them because a member of police was involved.

Mdaka was first employed by SANParks in 2012 and was a valuable member of the team of rangers involved in anti-poaching in Lower Sabie.

“It saddens us that this valuable member of our anti-poaching team passed away during this incident. Our heartfelt condolences to his family,” said Mabasa.

Mdaka’s funeral will take place on Sunday. Arrangements are still being made.

– Caxton News Service

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