A major sting operation rescued illegally hunted wildlife and nabbed 7 poaching suspects in Pilgrims Rest on December 5. The breakthrough came after security teams spotted the armed group invading a plantation.

“We commend the teamwork leading to arrests and saving more animals from senseless killing,” said Lt. Gen. Semakaleng Manamela, Provincial Police Commissioner.

Authorities said cameras caught the poachers entering the Mauchsburg mountain plantation early Monday. When guards went to investigate, they discovered a disturbing scene.

Several wildlife species had been slaughtered and loaded onto a delivery truck. The slaughtered animals included endangered species now being assessed.

Police detained 6 men and 1 woman aged 17 to 42 at the site. They seized two licensed rifles, abundant ammunition, knives, phones and the vehicle used to transport carcasses.

“We believe the wildlife was destined for illegal miners in the area,” said Pr. “The gang thought this wilderness provided easy, hidden access.”

Instead, the security response teams triumphed and prevented more wildlife trafficking in the province. Officials continue investigating where the poachers originated from.

The Captain said the arrested woman is suspected of being “the ringleader identifying targets for the crew.” The 7 perpetrators will appear in court soon on poaching and weapons charges.