7th November 2024
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Heroic game rangers stop rhino poaching attempt at Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park

Standard Lesotho Bank launches groundbreaking M11 million cashback rewards for loyal customers footer
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Heroic game rangers stop rhino poaching attempt at Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park

…as rhino succumbs to bullet injuries sustained in September

Tulani Ngwenya

PIETERMARITZBURG, South Africa – Game rangers at Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park (HiP) stopped a white rhino-poaching attempt with amazing bravery and dedication, which resulted in the arrest of a suspect.

The incident, which was reported by Siboniso Duma, the MEC for Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs, brings to light the continued difficulties that wildlife conservationists encounter when attempting to protect endangered species.

The attempted poaching resulted in the injury of HiP Park Manager, Amos Khetha Tembe, during the arrest. Tembe is currently receiving treatment, and the department said it wished him “a swift and full recovery”.

MEC Duma commended the dedication and vigilance of the game rangers, emphasising that their cutting-edge technology and alertness were crucial in preventing the poaching of a rhino’s horn.

Despite the persistent threat of poaching, the white rhino population at Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Park continues to contribute significantly to eco-tourism in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa, and the entire continent.

Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park is the birthplace of many a rhino

Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park holds historical significance as the birthplace of many white rhinos, making it imperative to intensify efforts to protect this iconic species. The recently appointed CEO, Sihle Mkhize, is collaborating with the authorities to deploy additional resources to enhance the work of the dedicated game rangers.

MEC Duma and CEO Mkhize said they were dedicated to raising the morale of game rangers and enhancing their working conditions because they acknowledge the unsung heroes and heroines among them. The department was resolute in its support of the Ezemvelo Board, which is chaired by Lydia Johnson, and worked in tandem with traditional leaders and communities to guarantee that eco-tourism goods and conservation services benefit both parties.

In line with previous statements, the department reiterated its long-term plan to utilise a portion of the revenue generated through conservation services to implement projects catering to the needs of local communities.

On a broader scale, tourism in KZN was flourishing, with reports indicating an increase in the number of visitors to more than 114 protected areas and nearly 40 accommodation facilities managed by Ezemvelo.

The province was expected to welcome over 845 000 visitors, including 52 000 international tourists, contributing a projected R3.6 billion to the provincial economy.

The department was dedicated to ensuring that wildlife conservation efforts in the area continued to be successful, and the recent incident highlights the vital role that game rangers play in protecting South Africa’s natural heritage.

Rhino succumbs to bullet injuries as heroic game ranger battles on

Meanwhile, a rhino which was in September 2023 shot by poachers at Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, met its tragic end after succumbing to the injuries.

The shooting incident happened when MEC Duma engaged with dedicated game rangers, delving into the intricacies of wildlife management and anti-poaching efforts.

During the recorded footage, Tembe, distinguished by his jacket, played a crucial role in the briefing. Little did anyone know that Tembe’s commitment to wildlife conservation would soon be put to the ultimate test.

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The dedicated game ranger was injured while confronting a rhino poaching suspect in the act of sawing off its horn. Swift action by Tembe and fellow rangers led to the apprehension of the suspect, who is currently in custody, awaiting prosecution.

Despite the heroic efforts of Tembe and his team, the rhino, bearing the brunt of the poacher’s brutality, ultimately succumbed to bullet injuries. The loss of the magnificent animal underscores the relentless and devastating impact of poaching on endangered species.

Poaching for rhino horn. Picture by Save the Rhino/Sarah Nelson
Poaching for rhino horn. Picture by Save the Rhino/Sarah Nelson

As the news of the rhino’s tragic fate reverberates, the focus turns to the recovery of HiP Manager Amos Tembe, who is presently in the hospital. His courageous actions in the face of danger exemplified the dedication of those on the frontlines of wildlife conservation.

Tragic rhino death a reminder of preservation efforts

The incident served as a stark reminder of the urgent need for increased efforts to combat poaching and preserve our planet’s endangered species. The struggle against the illegal wildlife trade requires collective action and unwavering commitment from authorities, communities, and individuals alike.

In the aftermath of this heartbreaking event, the environmental community rallies behind Tembe’s recovery and renews its determination to safeguard the world’s precious wildlife from the relentless threat of poaching. The memory of the fallen rhino becomes a poignant symbol of the ongoing battle to protect and preserve our planet’s biodiversity for generations to come.

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