National Hawks spokesperson Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi says they've seen a definite shift in the focus of rhino poachers from the Kruger National Park to other areas of the country.
He was reacting to Monday's discovery of three rhino carcasses and a shot and wounded white rhino on the Tyityaba private game reserve near East London.
Mulaudzi said they believe syndicates are behind this criminal activity and that they will continue to pour their resources into fighting the scourge.
"Most of the concentration (of poaching incidents) was in Kruger National Park because this is where most of the rhinos are. We have seen that there is also now other areas that are being targetted," said Mulaudzi.
"This kind of criminal activity, we believe, are the work of syndicates. As such we have over the several past years dealt decisively with many of these syndicates but surely once you arrest one another will then emerge. So, there are different initiatives that we are coming with and I think we are making inroads. But, what is critical is that we need to have a working relationship between ourselves, as law enforcement, and the private game farms so that we can work together in fighting this scourge," he added.
Reserve owner Frank Krull says the wounded animal has a 50 per cent chance of survival.
Earlier this month, a young bull rhino and a mature female were also poached for their horn at Tyityaba.
Responding to a question on proposal that government authorise the sale of rhino horn stockpiles, Mulaudzi said "that is an issue that is being dealt with politically."
"Ours is to deal with the organised nature of these rhino killings. I think those discussions are still continuing. As to how it's going to pan out, whether it's going to assist us or not, we're not sure. But, what is critical is that we are supposed to be doing what is right and we are supposed to be arresting these people. With these incidents that took place in the Eastern Cape yesterday (Tuesday), really it is totally, totally unacceptable," said Mulaudzi.
"In think our flora and fauna has to be protected at all times. We are doing our best and I'm quite sure that the members (Hawks) in the Eastern Cape will do their best to find out who are the people responsible." he added.
