A prized eland cow worth R25,000 has been poached and slaughtered on a farm in the Musina area, prompting police to launch an extensive manhunt for the perpetrators.
The incident came to light on Tuesday morning, 26 May, during a routine patrol by a farm employee at around 07:00. The employee discovered that the property’s perimeter fence had been cut. After noticing suspicious footprints and dog tracks near the breach, he followed the trail, which led him to a disturbing scene where the eland had been killed and largely stripped of its meat.
The Musina Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit has since taken over the investigation. A poaching case has been formally opened, although police have confirmed that the suspects remain unknown at this stage.
The eland is Africa’s largest antelope and is classified as a protected species in South Africa. Poaching incidents of this nature carry severe criminal penalties under the country’s wildlife protection laws.
Police have urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Members of the public can contact the investigating officer, Sergeant Mamedzi Azwianewi Robert, directly on 071 612 1064. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call the Crime Stop hotline on 08600 10111 or submit a tip-off through the MySAPS app.