R300,000 Buffalo Bull Poached in Kruger National Park's Tshikuyu Block, Suspects at Large
- A park ranger discovered the remains of a buffalo bull in the Tshikuyu Block after spotting a vulture circling overhead on Sunday morning
- Footprints and dog tracks at the scene led investigators toward the boundary fence in the direction of Benndemutale village
- Limpopo police commissioner Lt-Gen Jan Scheepers condemned the incident and urged members of the public with information to come forward
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LIMPOPO —Authorities in Limpopo have registered a formal criminal investigation following the unlawful killing of a buffalo bull inside the Kruger National Park, with the animal carrying an estimated financial value of R300,000. The incident occurred within the Masisi policing precinct of the Vhembe District, specifically targeting the Tshikuyu Block sector.
At approximately 9:30 on 30 August 2026, a wildlife protection ranger performing routine duties observed a vulture circling high. Upon altering his route to inspect the disturbance, the official uncovered the severed head of a buffalo bull, scattered remnants of hide, five distinct human footprints, and companion canine tracks.
Trail Extends Toward Boundary Fence
According to IOL, the ranger systematically followed the combined human and animal trail all the way to the park's outer perimeter fence, noting that it pointed straight toward Benndemutale village. Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba verified that a poaching docket has been formally opened at the Masisi station. At this stage, the culprits remain completely unidentified, and no arrests have been made.
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Limpopo police commissioner Lieutenant-General Jan Scheepers, who was appointed the commissioner in August, expressed severe disapproval over the event, highlighting that unlawful wildlife harvesting poses a critical threat. He appealed for heightened collaborative efforts from local communities and law enforcement partners.
Investigators request that anyone possessing actionable intelligence contact the lead investigator, Sergeant Mamedzi Azwianewi Robert, directly at 071 612 1076. Alternatively, informants may visit any local police facility or submit details anonymously via the MySAPS mobile application or Crime Stop at 08600 10111. Ledwaba confirmed that inquiries remain active.
Buffalo drama at Kruger National Park turns deadly
In a related article, Briefly News reported on the tense encounter with a buffalo bull that wandered into Marloth Park from Kruger National Park, culminating in the animal being put down by wildlife officials. The incident not only raised concerns regarding community safety but also highlighted the broader challenges of human-wildlife interactions in shared environments.
Source: Briefly News
