Kruger Poachers Sentenced to 22 Years: Police Hail Justice as a Victory for Conservation

Sam Khosa (40), Solly Bennett Selahle (30), and Oddis Maluleke (46) were apprehended on February 15, 2019, after a field ranger observed suspicious activity in the park.

The Skukuza Regional Court has sentenced three wildlife poachers, including two South African nationals and a Mozambican, for serious crimes committed in the Kruger National Park (KNP). This significant ruling has been welcomed by law enforcement as a critical step in combating wildlife crime.

Sam Khosa (40), Solly Bennett Selahle (30), and Oddis Maluleke (46) were apprehended on February 15, 2019, after a field ranger observed suspicious activity in the park. Backup was called, leading to the interception of two vehicles, a VW Polo and a Hyundai, on the road between Skukuza and the Kruger Gate.

A search of the Hyundai revealed incriminating evidence, including:

• A hunting rifle with ammunition.
• A rhino horn.
• Two knives.
• Clothing items associated with poaching activities.

The vehicles were confiscated, and the suspects were arrested and charged.

Court Proceedings and Sentences

After a lengthy legal process, the court convicted and sentenced Khosa and Maluleke as follows:

• Count 1: Trespassing in a national park – 2 years’ imprisonment.
• Count 3: Possession of an unlicensed firearm – 5 years’ imprisonment.
• Count 4: Possession of a firearm with intent to commit a crime – 4 years’ imprisonment.
• Count 5: Possession of a prohibited firearm (obliterated serial number) – 6 years’ imprisonment.
• Count 6: Conspiracy to commit a crime – 4 years’ imprisonment.
• Count 7: Illegal hunting of rhinoceros – 10 years’ imprisonment.
• Count 8: Possession of unlicensed ammunition – 2 years’ imprisonment.
• Count 9: Possession of a dangerous weapon – 1 year imprisonment.

The court ruled that the sentences for Counts 3, 4, 8, and 9 would run concurrently with Count 5, resulting in an effective sentence of 22 years for both Khosa and Maluleke.

Selahle, the third accused, received a four-year sentence for conspiracy to commit a crime.

Collaboration and Impact

Major General Dr. Zeph Mkhwanazi, Acting Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga, praised the collaboration between various stakeholders that led to the successful conviction. “We hope these sentences send a strong message to others considering similar actions. Wildlife crime will not go unpunished,” said Mkhwanazi.

Additional Conservation Efforts

This sentencing comes amidst heightened efforts to protect South Africa’s wildlife. Authorities have intensified anti-poaching operations in response to the growing threat of wildlife crimes, which not only harm ecosystems but also undermine conservation and tourism efforts.

The Kruger National Park remains a global icon for wildlife conservation, and this ruling underscores the commitment of South African authorities to preserving its biodiversity for future generations.

Public Role in Conservation

Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspicious activities related to wildlife crime to law enforcement or conservation authorities. This collaboration between citizens and authorities is essential in the fight against poaching.

The conviction of these poachers represents a significant victory for justice and serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting South Africa’s natural heritage.