Black rhino killed by poachers

A shocking discovery this past weekend was made when a farmer in the Erongo region located the carcass of a female black rhino, known as Solo, who died after poachers set a wire trap. 

From the evidence it appears that the rhino died after she was caught in a wire snare around her neck. Nearby, poachers had managed to ensnare more mammals, including two zebra. The farm on which the rhino was killed forms part of the 200 000 hectare Erongo Mountain rhino sanctuary trust. 

Solo’s horns had been hacked off with what could have been an ax or a panga.

The snare had been strategically placed on a path frequented by black rhino’s in the area. From the remains, it is estimated that Solo died around three weeks ago.

It appears that Solo died on a farm where supervision has been minimal since the owner of the farm was sentenced to serve a prison term, after he accidentally shot and killed a poacher.

Since then, according to neighbours, the farm has been overrun with poachers who have seized the chance to prey on wildlife without much chance of discovery.

Police in the special resource protection unit and members from the Ministry of Environment and Tourism is investigating the death of the rhino. 

Serious concern was expressed by farmers in the area yesterday, that the rest of the resident black rhinos in the area are in danger of being poached as well.