Sandveld Nature Reserve near Hoopstad has experienced the brunt of rhino poaching during the early hours of 23 October 2013, when an attempt was made to kill a rhinoceros cow for her horns.
The rhino was inhumanely mutilated by being shot and hacked with a machete across her back in an attempt to further immobilise her. Her rear horn was removed and her front horn partially removed. The cow managed to escape from its attackers and is still alive.
She will be moved to a place of safety where the departmental veterinarian, Dr Pierre Nel, will attempt to save her life. Fortunately her calf, which is still dependent on its mother, was untouched and will now be removed to a rehabilitation centre for care and safety.
It is suspected that three people were involved in the incident and a massive operation involving the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs and the SAPS has been launched to apprehend the suspects.
Rhino poaching is a serious problem in this country as nearly 750 rhinos has been poached since January this year. This is the third attempt of rhino poaching to the state owned reserves in the Free State and any person with information relating to this incident is urged to contact police.
For more information:
Festy Nyamate
Tel: 051 400 9548
Email: nyamatef@detea.fs.gov.za
