Poaching Suspect Arrested in Kruger Park

A 42-year-old foreign national has been arrested following an alleged poaching incident in the Kruger National Park on Tuesday evening, 31 March 2026.

According to the information provided 

, Field rangers conducting routine patrols encountered two suspects on foot at about 22:00.

When rangers attempted to stop and apprehend the suspects, a shootout reportedly broke out. During the exchange of fire, one of the suspects sustained a gunshot wound to the leg and was apprehended at the scene. The second suspect escaped and remains at large, prompting authorities to launch a manhunt.

Police said the arrested suspect was found in possession of an unlicensed hunting rifle, eight rounds of ammunition, an axe and a knife.

The injured suspect was transported to a medical facility under police guard for treatment.

He is expected to face several charges, including possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, possession of dangerous weapons, trespassing in a national park, and contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa.

Police have confirmed that investigations are ongoing and efforts to locate the second suspect are continuing.