In a heavily guarded sanctuary in Botswana, four rhinos were shot, resulting in two deaths, wildlife authorities said, adding that their horns were still intact.
This incident occurred at the Khama Rhino Sanctuary in central Botswana, where the government had relocated rhinos from other areas to discourage poachers.
Two bodies were found with horns intact, while the other rhinos are recovering from gunshot wounds, environment and tourism ministry secretary Thato Raphaka said. The motivation behind the shooting is unclear.
Botswana has been dealing with a poaching crisis since 2018, prompting authorities to move rhinos from the Okavango Delta, a poaching hotspot. In 2019, the rhino population was estimated to be 400; most were relocated to safer havens.
While the government is cautious about releasing information, rhino conservationist Map Ives believes it’s essential to reassure the public about the safety of the rhino sanctuary, especially given its significance for tourism.
Botswana, Namibia and South Africa are struggling with rhino poaching: in 2022, around 546 rhinos were killed in Africa. The demand for rhino horns in China and Vietnam fuels this poaching crisis.
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