'Poachers' shot in Kruger

2006-12-13 14:29

Johannesburg - Two men thought to be poachers escaped after being shot by rangers on the eastern boundary of the Kruger National Park in Limpopo, South African National Parks spokesperson Wanda Mkutshulwa said on Wednesday.

Rangers were patrolling the area on Tuesday as a rhino had been poached earlier this year when they saw two men climbing over the boundary fence, which also acts as the international border between Mozambique and South Africa, said Mkutshulwa.

"One of the suspects was armed with an AK47 assault rifle. The rangers instructed the men to stand still but the suspect with the rifle turned around.

Interpreting this as a threat the rangers opened fire on the suspects who managed to climb over the fence back into Mozambique, said Mkutshulwa.

"On further investigation, drops of blood were found, suggesting that at least one of the suspects was injured," said Mkutshulwa. The KNP rangers were still investigating the scene for more evidence.

- SAPA