A SHOOT-OUT in Phinda Game Reserve netted five suspected poachers on Saturday.
In a joint operation, Durban Organised Crime Unit, Nyathi Anti-Poaching and Special Task Force in Hluhluwe received information about a group of people who were suspected to be poaching at Phinda.
While patrolling, the team spotted five suspects inside the game reserve.
When the officers approached the men, the alleged poachers started shooting at the police. A shoot-out ensued and one of the suspects was wounded in the attack.
The men were apprehended and police found an unlicensed hunting rifle with three live rounds, silencer and an axe.
The alleged poachers are between the ages of 17 and 38 years.
The group will appear in Hluhluwe Magistrate’s Court tomorrow, facing charges of illegal hunting, attempted murder, possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
