Tulani Ngwenya
SKUKUZA, South Africa – A former SANParks employee was arrested on February 4, 2025, in connection with a burglary at the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit storeroom in Skukuza. The break-in, which occurred on January 23, 2025, involved the theft of several state-owned items, including crime scene bags, investigative equipment, and poaching-related materials.
According to SAPS, the 52-year-old former SANParks staffer allegedly forced his way into the storeroom and helped himself to various tools used in investigations. These included cleaning materials and knives, as well as other specialised equipment essential for poaching-related investigations. The burglary was reportedly committed on two separate occasions, and it was only when the Stock Theft Unit members noticed suspicious activity near the storeroom that an investigation was launched.
“This incident has raised serious concerns about the security of sensitive materials in our efforts to protect endangered species, and we are fully committed to working with law enforcement to uncover the full scope of the crime,” said JP Louw, Head of Communications at SANParks. “We have zero tolerance for any act of corruption or misconduct within our organisation, and this investigation reinforces our commitment to maintaining integrity in the fight against wildlife crime.”
Despite the former SANParks staffer’s attempts to cover up the burglary by returning some of the stolen items to their original locations, the suspect was apprehended after the investigation linked him to the crime. The Masoyi Magistrate Court will head the case on February 5, where the former SANParks staffer faced charges of business burglary, and further charges may follow as the investigation unfolds.
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The SANParks community has been affected by the arrest, leading to concerns about internal security and the potential dangers posed by staff members involved in wildlife crime. SANParks has pledged its full cooperation with SAPS as the investigation progresses.
Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, Acting Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga, also addressed the incident, stating, “We cannot allow anything that undermines our crime-fighting operations, particularly when it comes to combating poaching. Our swift action demonstrates that we have zero tolerance for criminal behaviour, regardless of one’s position or status. This arrest should serve as a reminder that the law will take its course without fear or favour.”
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are exploring all angles to understand the full scope of the burglary and the former SANParks staffer’s potential involvement in larger criminal networks.
