Suspected poacher killed by elephant in Kruger National Park

A suspected poacher was found dead inside the Kruger National Park after allegedly encountering a herd of elephants while illegally inside the protected area.

SANParks said KNP Rangers received information on Saturday, 12 September 2026, about two suspected poachers who had allegedly entered the park through the Pafuri area on Friday.

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Preliminary information indicates that the pair encountered a herd of elephants and fled in different directions, losing contact with one another.

One of the suspects later returned home and reported that his accomplice was missing. He allegedly told authorities that he had heard the man screaming during the incident.

The matter was reported to the South African Police Service (SAPS), with assistance from members of the local community.

One suspect was subsequently arrested and allegedly admitted to participating in the unlawful entry into the Kruger National Park.

He then accompanied SANParks Rangers from the Pafuri Ranger Post to the area where the incident was believed to have taken place.

Rangers followed tracks from the Luvuvhu River for approximately six kilometres into the park, where they discovered the body of the missing suspect.

During the search, they also found the remains of a buffalo believed to have been illegally hunted.

Forensic processes

SANParks said SAPS has been informed and will continue with the necessary investigative and forensic processes.

The circumstances surrounding the man’s death will form part of the investigation, while authorities will also investigate the suspected illegal hunting of the buffalo.

The incident once again highlights the risks associated with illegal entry into protected wildlife areas, where encounters with dangerous animals can have fatal consequences.

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