International co-operation critical in fight against rhino poaching

The department has been commenting after the release of 2018's rhino poaching statistics by Minister Nomvula Mokonyane yesterday.

The department says 769 rhinos were slaughtered for their horns last year -- down from 1,028 the year before.

NOW READ: Elusive 'black panther' alive and well in Kenya, study shows

“The decline is not only indicative of the successful implementation of the Integrated Strategic Management of Rhinoceros Approach countrywide, but also a confirmation of the commitment and dedication of the men and women working at the coalface to save the species,” said Minister Mokonyane.

Environmental Affairs' spokesperson, Albi Modise says 2018's figures reflect the first year in five that under a thousand rhinos were poached.

PHOTOS: Six rhinos dehorned at northern KZN reserve

In KwaZulu-Natal, 142 rhino were poached in the previous 12 months -- down from 222 in 2017.

Modise says combating rhino poaching remains a priority for officials.

"The reality is that poaching in South Africa is the result of the international illicit wildlife trade and that is a point of concern," said Modise.

"Our point of departure is international. We need to work together with parties like Vietnam, Thailand and other Asian countries to make sure that as we make policies geared towards dealing with poachers at home, there are parties that we work with globally."

The department says 365 alleged rhino poachers and 36 suspected traffickers were arrested across the country last year.

There are currently 318 rhino poaching-related cases on the court roll, involving 645 suspects and 897 charges. Some 275 cases are ready to go to trial.

ALSO READ: ZAPWing Hluhluwe's expansion plans

The National Prosecuting Authority obtained 78 of the 82 cases that went to trial last year.

Meanwhile, the Environmental Affairs says it is regrettable that elephant poaching cases increased last year. Mokonyane says 72 elephants were poached last year.

Some 71 animals were killed in the Kruger National Park, while one was poached here in KwaZulu-Natal.