The Limpopo police have on Wednesday afternoon arrested two suspected rhino poachers at a private game reserve in Bela Bela.

The suspects, aged 33 and 61, are from Donkerhoek near Pretoria and were travelling in a fast car which could not aid them in their mission to elude the police. During the arrest police confiscated a 300 Winchester hunting rifle, an axe, two knives and two cellphones together with the vehicle.

The arrest of these two takes the toll of suspected rhino poachers arrested in February alone to 15. Earlier in the month three suspects were arrested at Nwanedi Game Reserve. At Letaba Ranch police confronted and cornered five suspects; two were arrested whilst the other three were shot dead. Last week five suspects were arrested in Phalaborwa.

Since February police have managed to confiscate four unlicensed hunting rifles, one AK47, one pistol, three knives, two axes and two vehicles. All suspects are still in custody.

Meanwhile, the two suspects arrested yesterday will appear before the Bela Bela Regional Court on Friday, facing charges of Illegal hunting of protected game and possession of unlicensed firearm. Police investigations continue.