SKUKUZA – A 28-year-old man has been sentenced to 16 years’ imprisonment for his role in a rhino poaching operation that claimed two endangered animals’ lives in Kruger National Park.
Bethuel Baloyi was convicted on multiple charges relating to the March 2020 incident, including killing two rhinos, illegal firearm possession, trespassing, and conspiracy to commit an offence. The Skukuza Regional Court delivered the sentence today, marking another significant victory in South Africa’s ongoing battle against wildlife crime.
The case stems from a dramatic encounter, when rangers patrolling the Pretoriuskop section spotted three armed suspects. The confrontation turned deadly when one of the suspects, Mozambican national Andries Baloyi, pointed a firearm at the rangers, who returned fire, killing him instantly.
“The National Prosecuting Authority welcomes the sentence and reiterates its commitment to ensuring accountability and safeguarding the country’s natural heritage,” said Monica Nyuswa, NPA regional spokesperson. “Poaching continues to pose a grave threat to South Africa’s biodiversity and endangered species.”
The surviving suspects, Bethuel Baloyi and Million Masilane, were arrested at the scene carrying rifles and ammunition. A subsequent search revealed two rhino carcasses in the surrounding area, along with an illegal firearm.
Despite pleading not guilty, Baloyi was convicted after the State presented compelling evidence, including expert reports that confirmed bloodstains on his clothing matched that of a rhino. The prosecution’s case was further strengthened by ranger testimony detailing the events of that fateful day.
The court imposed sentences ranging from one to ten years across eight separate charges, with some running concurrently to reach the effective 16-year term. Baloyi received the heaviest penalty – 10 years – for killing the two rhinos, while additional sentences covered firearm-related charges, trespassing, conspiracy, and possession of a dangerous weapon.
In a troubling development, Baloyi absconded after the court postponed the matter for judgment, forcing prosecutors to seek a separation of trials. He was later re-arrested in KwaZulu-Natal’s Hluhluwe Game Reserve on similar charges that remain pending.
His co-accused, Million Masilane, was convicted and sentenced to an effective 16 years’ imprisonment in 2023.
