Repeat Offender Caught During Armed Poaching Attempt in Kruger National Park

On the afternoon of September 21, 2025, a group of poachers illegally entered Kruger National Park through the Crocodile Bridge area, with the intent to hunt protected species. Their presence was quickly detected by local protection and enforcement teams, triggering a direct confrontation inside the park.

During the operation, one of the poachers was shot and apprehended. The remaining individuals managed to escape and are currently being pursued. The suspect taken into custody has a documented history of involvement in illegal hunting activities, including multiple prior offenses related to poaching.

The Crocodile Bridge region, bordering southern Mozambique, remains a frequent target for incursions by organized poaching groups seeking high-value wildlife trophies. This case once again draws attention to the high-risk nature of anti-poaching patrols and the persistence of individuals with repeated offenses.

Continued vigilance, rapid response capacity, and transboundary cooperation remain vital to safeguarding one of Southern Africa’s most iconic protected areas. The detained suspect will now face further legal proceedings.