SANParks happy after rhino poacher jailed for 33 years. “Patrick Nkuna was arrested in 2015 in the Kruger National Park’s (KNP) Pretoriuskop section during an extended ground and air follow-up anti-poaching operation. Shortly before the arrest of Nkuna and his accomplices, he attempted to shoot at a SANParks helicopter involved in the follow-up operation,” said SANParks spokesperson Isaac Phaahla.
The South African National Parks (SANParks) on Monday welcomed the sentencing of a rhino poacher to a total of 33 years in prison, by the Skukuza Regional Court in the Kruger National Park.
“This is a huge victory and deterrence factor in the ongoing anti-poaching campaign. We warmly welcome this ruling as it will provide the much-needed boost to the anti-poaching teams who endure harsh conditions for the protection of our parks,” said Phillips.
Nkuna was charged with 12 counts, including four counts of attempted murder, trespassing in a national park, and possession of an illegal firearm.
“Our wish is to see a significant increase in such convictions and for the law enforcement authorities in affected countries to cooperate and work with us to end this scourge,” said Phillips.
Source: IOL News