A suspected rhino poacher (32-years) was arrested near Seven Fountains, on Monday.
Police said they recovered a high-calibre hunting rifle, he was carrying at the scene.
Major General Kupiso, said On Monday night,at around 11pm, a team member of the Port Alfred K9 Unit, received information about rhino poaching on a farm in the Seven Fountains area.
He fetched K9 Kayzer, a certified patrol dog, and headed to the scene.
Upon arrival at the farm, the K9 member and the SAPS Makhanda Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit (STES) worked in conjunction with an Anti-Poaching Unit to conduct waylay duties and maintain close surveillance of the targeted area throughout the night.
At about 10:50pm, three suspects were spotted.
They immediately fled on foot into the surrounding bush upon noticing the police.
A chase ensued, and the K9 team arrested one of the suspects.
Police recovered an unloaded .375 H&H high-calibre hunting rifle, an unattached silencer and various poaching equipment.
Major General Thandiswa Kupiso, Sarah Baartman District Commissioner, said “the selflessness of an off-duty member placing himself and his K9 partner on immediate duty to protect our endangered wildlife speaks volumes about the calibre of officers within our ranks. This successful disruption sends a clear message to poaching syndicates that our members are always vigilant, on or off duty. We will continue to protect our infrastructure and heritage with every resource at our disposal.”
The suspect is expected to appear before the Makhanda Magistrates’ Court.
Picture: UCT Law Faculty