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The Minister of Environmental Affairs, Mrs Edna Molewa, has condemned the poaching and dehorning of two rhino at the Rietvlei Nature Reserve on Thursday night.

“I am hopeful that the perpetrators of this heinous crime will be arrested and brought to book soon,” said Minister Molewa.

The Minister has urged all South Africans to continue working with our law enforcement agencies in ensuring that all these individuals involved in the on-going attacks on our rhino population face the full might of the law.

Minister Molewa has urged all South Africans to bring any information they may have on rhino poaching, and wildlife crime in general, to the relevant authorities and encourage your friends, families and friends to do the same.

Molewa encouraged all communities in Tshwane to be vigilant, report suspicious activity in your area that you think may be related to rhino poaching.

‘No matter how small or insignificant you may think it is, it can help us.”

The Minister reiterated that the implementation of the Integrated Strategic Management Approach adopted by Government to combat rhino poaching in a comprehensive manner is bearing fruit.

“While we are not yet able to declare victory, we are making progress,” said the Minister. “We, as government, are not giving the fight against rhino poaching in South Africa, and will ensure that all resources necessary to bring about an end to rhino poaching in our country are utilised.”

The Rietvlei Nature Reserve has introduced additional security measures, and the reserve remains closed until further notice.

Issued by Department of Environmental Affairs