August proved to be a busy month for anti-poaching operations. As expected during the dry season, illegal activities increased across protected areas, as did field emergencies requiring support from our SWT/KWS Anti-Poaching Teams. This is the beginning of what will surely prove to be a very intense period until the rains arrive.
The teams covered 39,009 kilometers on patrol during the month, resulting in the collection of 1,111 snares and 48 arrests. Those arrested included nine individuals found in possession of bushmeat, four suspected bushmeat poachers, 23 livestock herders, three firewood collectors, one fisherman, and seven people for illegal entry into the parks. Teams confiscated 17 kilograms of bushmeat and over 36 animal carcasses, including dik-diks, kudu, and fish from various poaching operations.
Anti-poaching efforts also focused on dismantling illegal infrastructure. Teams destroyed 16 charcoal kilns and one charcoal camp, confiscating one sack of charcoal in the process. Additionally, 47 harbours, hides, and camps used by offenders within the parks were located and destroyed.
During August, teams discovered three elephant carcasses and recovered 76 kilograms of ivory, which was handed over to KWS for safekeeping. Beyond enforcement activities, the teams supported conservation efforts by assisting with an orphaned elephant rescue, helping free two adult elephants from mud, and responding to several veterinary cases.