S/Africa records 420 rhinos poaching in 2024

Johannesburg, March 6, ’25 (Xinhua) South Africa’s Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, Dion George, says poachers killed 420 rhinos, for their horns in 2024, down from 499 in 2023,

Announcing the annual poaching statistics, on Thursday, George said 320 rhinos were poached on state properties, while 100 were killed on privately owned parks, reserves, or farms.

The minister attributed the decline to strengthened anti-poaching measures.

“Polygraph testing of staff is continuing at Kruger National Park in line with its integrity management plan.

“To date, investigations that have flowed from these polygraph results.

“Subsequent investigations into the individuals have resulted in disciplinary action against two employees in Ranger Services,” George said.

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He added that cooperation with various stakeholders has also helped alert customs and law enforcement officials in transit and destination countries to the illegal trade in rhino horns.

South Africa is implementing the National Integrated Strategy to Combat Wildlife Trafficking, working closely with authorities in transit and destination countries to curb rhino poaching.

“We remain committed to the fight against rhino poaching.

“I believe that a renewed strengthening of our agreements and operational protocols with key countries should be our focus for 2025,” George added. (Xinhua)