Poaching Duo Handed 11-Year Jail Terms After Kruger Park Arrest

wo men convicted of multiple poaching-related offences in the Kruger National Park have each been sentenced to 11 years’ direct imprisonment by the Skukuza Regional Court.

Ephraim Bheki Siwela, 43, and Kobus Simon Sambo, 40, were convicted on seven counts, including trespassing in a national park, illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition, and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number.

The case stems from 30 May 2021, when rangers detected suspicious activity in the Pretoriuskop section of the park. Footprints believed to be from poachers led investigators to a firearm and hunting knives, with the two men later found hiding nearby.

Investigators linked their footwear to the footprints, while ballistic evidence connected the firearm to the accused.

Both men pleaded not guilty. The NPA said the convictions demonstrate the importance of cooperation between conservation authorities, police and prosecutors in combating wildlife crime.