The number of rhinos killed in the country this year now stands at over 400. (SABC)
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Four dehorned rhino carcasses have been found at Lalibela Game Reserve near Grahamstown in the Eastern Cape. The Reserve's Vernon Waite says the rhinos were discovered by game rangers earlier today.
This after an incident where nine rhinos were killed in KwaZulu-Natal over the weekend. The number of rhinos killed in the country this year now stands at over 400. Waite says they suspect poisoning, as no wounds were found on the animals.
"This morning on the early morning game drive one of the rangers with guests came across this tragic site of 4 rhino carcasses that have been dehorned. We're still at a stage where we are gathering, with the assistance of the police and the hawks and various other bodies, as much information as possible. We are going to be releasing a full statement once we think we have all the information," added Waite.
South Africa is home to the largest rhino population in the world which is under heavy threat.
The South African government says firm policies are in place to fight the scourge of rhino poaching. The Conservation and Environmental Affairs Department said engagements are continuing with Asian countries to ensure agreements in wildlife crime prevention.
Meanwhile, a group of film-makers has released a movie to highlight the plight of rhino in South Africa.
