The killing of a rhino cow and her calf by poachers at the Lawrence de Lange Game Reserve in Komani has sparked outrage and sorrow across the Eastern Cape community. The incident occurred on Saturday, and police acted swiftly to arrest two suspects and recover four horns. The Enoch Mgijima municipality has condemned the act and promised an urgent review of reserve security. A third rhino was found unharmed after initially being reported missing.
According to police spokesperson Captain Yolisa Mgolodela, the incident was reported early on Saturday, and a team responded to the scene, gathering valuable intelligence that led to the identification of a vehicle believed to be linked to the incident. The vehicle was spotted by Red Guard Security members at a garage in Cathcart Road, and the information was shared with the police, resulting in the arrest of two foreign nationals.
The suspects, aged 30 and 35, were arrested after a takedown, and a third suspect managed to flee and evade arrest. During the arrest, police confiscated a VW Polo with a Cape Town registration number, three cellphones, an unlicensed firearm, and ammunition. The suspects face charges including illegal hunting of protected species and possession of unlicensed firearms when they appear in court on Wednesday.
Enoch Mgijima municipality spokesperson Lonwabo Kowa said the two rhinos were found dead with gunshot wounds and their horns removed during the early hours of Saturday. A previous poaching incident at the reserve had been reported in 2018, prompting the municipality to strengthen security, including through enlisting the support of dedicated volunteer rangers.
The municipality strongly condemns the act of wildlife crime, which not only robs the community of its natural heritage but also undermines efforts to develop, protect, and promote tourism facilities as drivers of local economic development and job creation. The rhino is an endangered species and an important part of biodiversity and tourism attraction.
The forestry, fisheries, and environment department reported that about 230 rhinos had been poached in South Africa in the first eight months of 2026, a 7.26% decrease from the 248 killed over the same period in 2025. The municipality will review and further strengthen security measures at all its conservation facilities.
The community is urged to assist the investigation by contacting their nearest police station with any information that could lead to the apprehension of the suspects. The incident has highlighted the need for continued efforts to protect and conserve the rhino population in South Africa.
Key points
- Two suspects arrested and four rhino horns recovered after poaching incident at Lawrence de Lange Game Reserve.
- Municipality to review and strengthen security measures at all conservation facilities.
- National rhino poaching figures show a 7.26% decrease in 2026 compared to 2025.
