Police in Mpumalanga are investigating the fatal shooting of a man believed to be a key figure in a rhino poaching syndicate. The incident occurred outside his business premises in Mkhuhlu near Hazyview on 16 May 2026. It marks the second attack on the victim in recent days.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson Mavela Masondo said two male suspects arrived in a white bakkie and approached the victim, who was seated inside the premises. The man attempted to flee but was shot several times and died at the scene.
Masondo noted that the attack followed a similar incident a week earlier, when the victim was shot and injured at the same location by a single suspect. Police have not confirmed the motive but are examining possible links between the two events.
The deceased had been arrested multiple times in connection with high-profile rhino poaching cases in the province and remained linked to wildlife-related crimes, according to police statements.
