SAnews.gov.za reported that the department of environmental affairs has urged all its partners to review SA’s current strategy after 86 of the endangered animals were killed in January alone. Last year was the worst on record, with 1 004 rhinos killed.
“The aim of this process is to identify priority areas that require additional assistance and gaps that must be addressed," said departmental spokesperson Albi Modise.
He said the department also hoped to identify opportunities to consolidate existing projects and initiatives with its partners.
Modise said 21 suspected poachers have already been arrested this year in connection with the 86 rhinos poached since the beginning of January. Last year, 343 suspects were arrested.
Like last year, most of the rhinos killed so far this year (63) were killed in the Kruger National Park. Eight were poached in KwaZulu-Natal, six in Limpopo, four in the Free State, three in Mpumalanga and two in the North West.
South Africans are being encouraged to report information related to rhino poaching on the anonymous tip-off lines: 0800 205 005, 08600 10111 or Crime-Line on 32211.
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