16-Dec-09 1:00 PM CST

Killed Rhino Found in River

PIGG’S PEAK – Two boys made a startling discovery of a dead white rhinoceros in the Nkomazi River.

It had been shot dead and had two of its horns missing.

The poachers are unknown and the rhino is suspected to be from South Africa, Songimvelo Game Reserve, which is next to the area. Investigations by this newspaper revealed that a rhino could cost anything between E70 000 to E200 000. The horn is a source of ivory which is used to make jewelery such as earrings, bracelets and necklaces, to mention a few.

Sparked

The incident, which has sparked concerns of serious poaching ahead of Christmas, occured at Nhlalakahle, along the Nkomazi River. The rhino was first spotted by two boys, who were playing along the banks of the river on Monday. It was found floating.

It was gathered that upon seeing the animal, they reported the matter to rangers from the Malolotja Game Reserve. On arrival, the rangers discovered that the animal had disappeared and searching for it became a difficult exercise as it was already dark.
However, yesterday the police and rangers, joined by the residents, went in search of the dead rhinoand found it near the Nkomazi Bridge. There is speculation that the animal had spent at least three to five days in the river as it was found in a decomposed state and, according to Big Game Park’s Ranger Jubela Rielly, the rhino was from South Africa as it had been branded.

Police Public Relations Officer Senior Superintendent Vusi Masuku said the rhino had a bullet wound on its side, which raises suspicion that it was shot by poachers. “It’s also possible that the rhino was shot in South Africa then thrown into the Nkomazi River that flows into the country.

“The Pigg’s Peak police are, however, investigating the incident. We appeal to members of the public who might have information regarding the people behind the poaching to come forward,” said the police mouthpiece.

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