Rhino poacher arrested after shootout in Kruger National Park

A 32-year-old suspected rhino poacher has been arrested following a late-night shootout with field rangers in the Pretoriuskop section of the Kruger National Park.

The incident unfolded on Sunday, 5 July at around 23:55 when field rangers on an observation patrol encountered four men suspected of being involved in rhino poaching.

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Shootout during pursuit

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the rangers pursued the suspects in an attempt to arrest them.

During the chase, a gun battle broke out between the field rangers and the suspects, leaving one of the alleged poachers with gunshot wounds.

The injured suspect was arrested at the scene and was found in possession of a rifle.

Two firearms recovered

Police also recovered a second firearm believed to have been abandoned by one of the three suspects who managed to flee during the confrontation.

The wounded suspect was taken to a nearby hospital, where he remains under police guard while receiving medical treatment.

He is expected to appear in court once he has been declared medically fit.

Hunt for remaining suspects

The three remaining suspects are still on the run.

SAPS, working alongside Kruger National Park authorities, has launched a manhunt to trace and arrest the fugitives.