The Inkatha Freedom Party calls on for a nation-wide investigation into possible collusion between wildlife rangers and poachers who are killing rhinos after seven dead rhinos were found in a radius of 800 metres in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park last Wednesday.
“We are not accusing anyone but we are of the view that such investigation should be conducted in order to ascertain whether there is any collusion between rangers and poachers. No one should be spared in the fight to protect rhinos, which are South Africa’s key attraction in marketing tourism facilities to the world.
If rangers aren’t getting enough remuneration, they can be corrupted. We are looking at a very well-organised crime syndicates, spreading money around and buying services of government individuals.
If the park feels under staffed, why not set smaller parameters for habitation which would allow for better patrolling. The rhinos would have a better chance of survival as they would be monitored more closely. There seems to be a lack of initiative from the park taking into account 85% of rhino deaths in 2017 stemmed from the Hluluwe-iMfolozi reserve. Considering that alarming statistics one would assume that senior levels at Ezemvelo would have made it a priority to ensure the safety of the rhinos,” said IFP KZN Provincial Spokesperson on Environmental Affairs, Hon Mr Hassan Motala MPL.
“It is high time that government start prosecuting rhino poachers effectively and punishing them severely. Poachers keep on killing the animals because they are unlikely to be caught. The kingpins continue to operate with impunity on many game reserves. The corruption, incompetence and leniency of the system must not be allowed to continue.
Poachers are greedy, plus there is a high demand in markets for rhino horns. To deal with insatiable demand, we have to raise awareness in these markets and make them aware that they are devastating our biodiversity.
In addition, government should arm rangers with more sophisticated weapons to match those being used by poachers to help tame the menace,” continued Mr Motala.
“The IFP calls on government to declare poaching, of rhinos as a national disaster. Also, we urge courts to ensure that the punishment reflects the severity of the crime and such people must not be allowed to walk away and continue destroying our heritage,” concluded Mr Motala.
Issued by:
Mr Hassan Motala MPL
IFP KZN Provincial Spokesperson on Environmental Affairs
073 477 5029
