Twenty-four Rhinos Killed in SA in Two Weeks

By Samantha Allen

Published: December 16, 2021 | 9:59 AM GMT

Twenty-four rhinos have been killed in South Africa in about two weeks, the environment ministry has confirmed.

It says seven carcasses were found at Kruger National Park, another seven in Mpumalanga province, six in KwaZulu-Natal and four in Western Cape.

The ministry has condemned the continued poaching of rhinos for their horns, saying nine suspected poachers have been arrested in the first 14 days of December.

It has encouraged the public to assist with any information that could lead to the arrest and prosecution of poachers.

South Africa is home to nearly 80% of Africa’s rhino population, which stands at less than 30,000.

Hundreds are killed every year for their horns – most of which are destined for Asia where “rhino horn is an ingredient in medicine and herbal remedies.

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The environment department says it will give an update on the total number of rhinos killed for their horns in 2021 early in 2022.

BBC /Shakirat Sadiq
Twenty-four Rhinos Killed in SA in Two Weeks

About Samantha Allen

Samantha Allen is a seasoned journalist and senior correspondent at TDPel Media, specializing in the intersection of maternal health, clinical wellness, and public policy. With a background in investigative reporting and a passion for data-driven storytelling, Samantha has become a trusted voice for expectant mothers and healthcare advocates worldwide. Her work focuses on translating complex medical research into actionable insights, covering everything from prenatal fitness and neonatal care to the socioeconomic impacts of healthcare legislation. At TDPel Media, Samantha leads the agency's health analytics desk, ensuring that every report is grounded in accuracy, empathy, and scientific integrity. When she isn't in the newsroom, she is an advocate for community-led wellness initiatives and an avid explorer of California’s coastal trails.