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Whinsley Masara, Chronicle Reporter
THREE suspected poachers were arrested on Tuesday after they were found in possession of game meat and hides at Matopos National Park.

Game rangers came across them during their routine patrols around midday.

Nqobizitha Ncube and two others whose names could not be immediately established, are all from Bhazha area under Chief Masuku in Matobo District.

Matabeleland South Police spokesperson Inspector Philisani Ndebele confirmed the arrests and said investigations were underway.

“I can confirm receiving a report of three men who were arrested for poaching. They were found in possession of game meat and hides. Investigations are underway.

“We urge members of the public to shun poaching as the law will descend heavily on them,” said Insp Ndebele.

A villager, Mr Charles Mlilo, said rangers caught the poachers during patrols and after questioning them, they admitted to have been poaching.

“They admitted to killing an ant-bear and a kudu. About 20 kilogrammes of meat and hides were recovered at their homes.

“These young men are fond of poaching in the national park despite lengthy jail terms for the offence. Maybe hunger is a contributing factor,” he said.

Mr Mlilo said most villagers who are into poaching dry the game meat and sell it at some places far from their homes.

— @winnie_masara.