Illegal Rhino Poaching Hits Record In 2013

Last year was the worst year on record for rhinos that were killed by poachers according to new data released by the government of South Africa. There were approximately three rhinos killed each day representing an increase of an astonishing 7,723 per cent.

To get a sense how bad things have become in 2007 just 13 rhinos were poached and in 2013 that figure reached 1004. The Kruger National Park was one of the worst affected.

Dr Jo Shaw, Rhino Programme Manager for WWF-South Africa said that criminal networks pose a grave threat to both national security and the economy because they also scare tourists away.

“Rhino poaching and rhino horn trafficking are not simply environmental issues, they represent threats to the very fabric of our society.” The Dr. Shaw said.

Demand originates mainly from Asia and in particular from Vietnam. People in the region believe that horn powder has medicinal benefits and can be used to treat hangovers and even cancer. Rhinos are killed by well equipped gangs of criminals who then smuggle the contraband illegally into Asian nations such as Vietnam

South Africa and Vietnam signed a Memorandum of Understanding in December 2012 where they agreed to combat the problem of trafficking in wildlife. South Africa is seeking more agreements with other Asian countries.

David Cameron recently convened a London conference on the illegal trade in wildlife which was attended by both the Prince of Wales and Duke of Cambridge. The event was attended by heads of state or foreign ministers from approximately 50 states. The WWF is optimistic that the commitment from the highest levels of politics will help combat this devastating crime.