Three months after a rhino was poached in Loskop Nature Reserve and her four month old calf was left for dead, two suspected poachers have now been killed in the same place.
A local rhino farmer in the Loskop area handed over information to the Hawks that poachers will be hitting the reserve.
Crime Intelligence Head Office (Lt. Col. G van Rooyen), SAPS Special Task Force, Hawks and Tracker Connect Investigation Department all got involved in the operation.
The incident took place on Saturday, July 14 at approximately 20:00.
ALSO READ
Men arrested for poaching of rabbits
Lions devouring three rhino poachers in SA make headlines overseas
Members were put into strategic positions until the suspects arrived. Suspects gained entry into the reserve by cutting the fence.
An operational plan was executed when two suspects entered. Suspects opened fire on the team injuring one task force member who was shot in the leg. Members then retaliated and both suspects were killed.
Suspects utilized night vision optics to poach. The injured member from the task force team was treated on scene and then transported to hospital.
A suspect was shot and the .375 rifle that was seized on Saturday, July 14. (Photo: Intelligence Bureau SA)
The law enforcement members managed to seize a .375 rifle and ammunition, two knives, night vision optics and a cell phone.
The following cases have been opened at Middelburg Police Station: Attempted murder, possession of unlicensed firearm, possession of ammunitions x 13 rounds, trespassing at a reserve and possession of dangerous weapons (knives).
All the necessary role players were contacted and scene was processed accordingly by different units.
Everyone wishes the task member a speedy recovery and outstanding work to all.
