The number of rhino poached during 2018 has declined for the third consecutive year, but officials said that elephant poaching was on the rise.
The Department of Environmental Affairs said on Wednesday that the number of rhino poached fell below the 1000 mark for the first time to 769 in 2018 from 1028 in 2017.
Minister Nomvula Mokonyane said in a statement that the decline was not only indicative of the successful implementation of the Integrated Strategic Management of Rhinoceros Approach countrywide but also a confirmation of the commitment and dedication of the men and women working at the coalface to save the species.
She said from 1 January to 31 December 2018, a total of 365 suspected rhino poachers and 36 rhino horn traffickers were arrested nationally.
However, Minister Mokonyane said that it was "regrettable" that elephant poaching was on the increase, she said.
A total of 71 elephants were poached in the Kruger National Park between January 1 and December 31, 2018.
Members of the public should report any suspicious activities around wildlife to the department's environmental crime hotline on 0800 205 005 or contact the police on 10111.
(Pic: Kruger National Park)
