12 Mar 2020

An exchange of fire between Botswana Defence Force (BDF) patrol team and poachers has resulted in the death of a soldier and poacher.

A press release from the BDF anti-poaching operations unit says the incident occurred on Wednesday around 3am at Chiefs Island in the Ngami area.

The release also states that, despite positive achievements recorded over the years, poaching activities have not stopped as poachers continue to target rhinos, elephants and other endangered species in national parks.

The incident, it says, indicates that poachers continue to declare war on BDF members. Poachers have adopted new tactics and operating methods that escalated poaching activities particularly at Chiefs Islands.

It also says since 2019 to date, 11 poachers have been killed.

Meanwhile, names of the deceased have been withheld until the next of kin have been informed.

Thus, the BDF has sent condolences and prayers to the family and friends of the deceased and further requests that they be accorded the space and privacy to mourn their loved one. Ends