DFFE notes incidences of rhino poaching in South Africa in December 2021

14 December 2021
 

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has noted posts on social media in recent days stating that 23 rhino have been poached in South Africa within a short period of time.

The truth of the matter is that 24  rhino carcasses have been found in South Africa since 1 December 2021.

As of today’s date the provinces have reported carcasses as follows:

KwaZulu/Natal               6

Western Cape               4

Mpumalanga                 7

Kruger National Park    7

The Department condemns the continued poaching of these iconic species for their horn, and commends the work being done by rangers and security officials over the festive period to stem the killing of rhino.   In the first 14 days of December, nine alleged poachers have been arrested.

The Department will provide an update on the total number of rhino killed for their horn in 2021 early in 2022.

Members of the public are encouraged to assist with any information that could lead to the arrest and prosecution of poachers by calling 10111 or the environmental crime hotline on 0800 205 005.

For media inquiries contact:
Albi Modise
Cell: 083 490 2871