15-Mar-10 1:00 PM CST

Two Rhinos Poached in Rietvlei Nature Reserve

On Monday 8 March 2010 two female Rhinos were illegally killed on the Rietvlei Nature Reserve. This is part of the illegal Rhino horn trade currently running in South Africa.

From the evidence collected at the crime scene it is apparent that the perpetrators used a dart gun to kill the animals and that they were in a helicopter. The rhinos were overdosed with tranquilisers and killed. The poachers cut off the horns and left the crime scene by helicopter. The carcasses of the two animals were discovered by Nature Conservation staff of the City of Tshwane.

The case is currently being investigated by the Organised Crime Unit of the South African Police Force.

Very crucial evidence has been collected and leads are currently being followed up. It is further reported that visitors to the Nature Reserve as well as members of the public adjacent to the Nature Reserve saw suspicious vehicles and the helicopter involved.

As a precautionary measure the rest of the Rhino population on the Nature Reserve will be dehorned. Blood samples of the dead rhinos will be registered at Onderste Poort on the DNA data bank for further assistance to future possible investigations. A team of guards have been appointed to look after the animals.

The City of Tshwane humbly requests members of the public and all visitors to the Nature Reserve to report any suspicious incidents which can assist in the ongoing investigation as well as future illegal activities. A reward will be given to any person who can provide evidence that will lead to the arrest and successful prosecution of these criminals.

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