KZN poaching drops since virus lockdown

KZN poaching drops since virus lockdown

KZN Ezemvelo Wildlife says they have seen a decrease in poaching since the start of the national lockdown.

A suspected rhino poacher has been killed by an elephant then eaten by a pride of lions in Kruger National Park.
Instagram

But the conservation body says they remain on high alert as poachers continue to operate in the province.


Last week, a suspect was arrested in Mtubatuba, North of KZN for the illegal possession and sale of elephant ivory in the KwaMsane Township.


Following a tip off from the community, the suspect was nabbed with an elephant tusk valued at R150 000.


READ: Places of worship allowed to open under Level 3 lockdown


In a statement, Economic Development,Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC, Nomusa Dube-Ncube also recognized the community of KwaMsane for working with law enforcement agencies in the fight against wildlife crimes.


"So far, we have not seen any increment of crimes happening in our game reserves, says Ezemvelo Wildlife's Musa Mntambo. " 


"If fact, the lockdown has helped us to reduce the numbers because people are unable to travel. So even going into the game reserve becomes a problem."

Missed a Newswatch bulletin

Show's Stories