Two arrested in wake of deadly rhino poaching incident

Two suspects have been arrested in the wake of a brutal killing of a rhino and her calf at a game reserve in Komani, Eastern Cape.

According to the Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality, the mother and calf were shot dead. Their horns were also removed and stolen.

The killing took place at the Lawrence De Lange Game Reserve in the early hours of Saturday morning, 31 October 2026.

RHINO POACHING SUSPECTS APPREHENDED

Upon receiving this information from Crime Intelligence, the South African Police Service (SAPS) immediately dispatched a team of officers to the scene.

“Valuable intelligence was gathered, leading to the identification of a vehicle believed to be linked to the incident,” said SAPS, per a media statement. “At about 16:00, the vehicle of interest was spotted by Red Guard Security members at the garage in Cathcart Road, Komani, and information was shared with SAPS members. 

“A takedown was performed where two foreign national males [aged 35 and 36] were arrested, [while] one suspect managed to flee and evade arrest.”

SUSPECTS FACE CHARGES

A follow-up operation yielded the recovery of four rhino horns, as well as a .375 calibre Holland & Holland hunting rifle fitted with a silencer and live rounds of ammunition.

Additionally, police officers confiscated a Volkswagen Polo with a Cape Town registration number (allegedly used in the commission of an offence), three cellphones, and an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.

The two suspects are charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, illegal hunting of protected species and possession of suspected stolen property in the form of rhino horns. They were slated to appear in the Komani Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 2 November 2026.

IMPLICATIONS OF RHINO POACHING

At present, South Africa is home to the world’s largest rhino population. However, these animals are critically endangered, as they are hunted by poachers for their horns.

Rhino horns are highly coveted for their use in traditional medicine, particularly in Asian countries. They are also regarded as a significant status symbol.

In other news, Hawks recently arrested five suspects after they allegedly attempted to sell a live pangolin for R500 000.