Rhino poaching suspect begins serving 33-year sentence
A suspect in a rhino poaching incident at the Kruger National Park has begun serving a 33-year sentence.
Patrick Nkuna - who was arrested in 2015 - was sentenced at the park's Skukuza Regional Court on Friday.
At the time of the incident, Nkuna attempted to shoot at a helicopter involved in the anti-poaching operation.
Nkuna was convicted on 12 counts - including four counts of attempted murder, trespassing in a national park and the possession of an illegal firearm.
SANParks' Glenn Phillips says they welcome the outcome, adding it will serve as a deterrent to would-be poachers.
The regional court in Skukuza was officially opened last year, ensuring that cases related to rhino poaching and rhino horn trade are expedited.
ALSO READ: Rhino poaching 'down'
Rhino poaching has been classified as a national priority crime.