Collusion between criminal syndicates, conservationists blamed for rise in poaching
KZN Tourism and Environmental Affairs says alleged collusion among criminal syndicates and conservationists is behind the rising number of rhino poaching cases in the province.
A total of 106 animals were killed for their horns in KZN's parks since January.
The department says 102 rhinos were attacked in the province last year, and 93 in 2020.
MEC Ravi Pillay said - in a joint statement with Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife - that while they've boosted ranger numbers and security forces - coordinated responses with long-term effects are necessary.
He said it's clear that the spike in poaching's due to well-orchestrated operations driven by syndicates.
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"The premier has tasked my department with the processing and implementation of recommendations of the report by the task team into rhino poaching in KwaZulu-Natal and this is a work in process.
"There is indeed suspicion in collusion between criminal syndicates and those tasked with conservation.
"In February 2022, Mr Sizwe Buthelezi was sentenced to ten years imprisonment in the Durban regional court for, amongst other things, possession of rhino horn and unlicensed firearms. He is a former police officer who served on KwaMsane tackle response team."
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