Boshof – Three men have been arrested after two white rhinoceroses were shot and killed on a farm in Boshof, Free State, with police recovering two rhino horns, a rifle and other suspected poaching equipment.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) said the arrests followed a collaborative operation involving the Eyes and Ears Initiative, police, local farmers and private security companies.
Police received information about suspected rhino poaching at approximately 15:21 on Saturday, 24 October 2026, after farm security discovered the two animals had been shot dead.
“Two suspects were allegedly found in the process of dehorning the rhinos,” SAPS said in a statement.
The suspects were intercepted before they could remove the horns from the second rhinoceros. Police recovered two horns that had been removed from one of the animals.
One suspect was arrested at the scene, while a second allegedly attempted to flee but was later traced and arrested with the assistance of local farmers.
Police confiscated a CZ Win Mag rifle, six live rounds, a handsaw and knives, which were booked in as evidence.
The two men, aged 40 and 49, were arrested in Boshof. Preliminary investigations subsequently led police to a third suspect, aged 46, who was allegedly the driver and had fled to Kimberley in the Northern Cape.
“ He was then traced and apprehended by Kimberley police in the Northern Cape,” the statement said.
An Isuzu pick-up vehicle the third suspect was travelling in was also seized and booked in as evidence.
The three suspects are expected to appear in the Boshof Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 26 October, on charges of rhino poaching.
Lejweleputswa District Commissioner Major General (Dr) Tholie Afonso commended the cooperation between police units, the farming community and private security companies.
“The SAPS reaffirms its commitment to fight against illegal hunting of endangered species through integrated operations,” Afonso said.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
