FOUR suspected rhino poachers were apprehended by the Jozini police after a high speed car chase, following a joint operation between three private Zululand game reserves on Wednesday.

Three of the suspects, whose names will be released after their appearance in the Ubombo Magistrate’s Court, are reportedly out on bail for charges including murder, attempted murder and robbery with aggravating circumstances. The latter reportedly involved the hijacking of a truck.

Operatives from the Kwazulu Private Game Reserve, Pongola Game Reserve and AmaKhosi Safari Lodge, yesterday reacted to information that a poaching syndicate was expected to attempt another rhino slaughter.

Eye witnesses allegedly observed a Nissan bakkie dropping three suspects in the field, armed with a weapon.

The men then allegedly hid four backpacks, containing new sets of clothing, shoes and Q20 weapon cleaner, in the field.

Meanwhile, operatives hid two vehicles on the Candover road and awaited their return, while guards stationed in the field were on high alert to protect the animals from harm.

The men returned empty handed and the Nissan with two occupants returned for them, but, the driver seemingly became alerted and suddenly turned around and headed back to the N2.

The operatives gave chase and the Nissan turned towards Jozini, traveling at high speed.

The Jozini police were alerted, and while a first SAPS vehicle failed to stop them as they sped through the town, a second police vehicle succeeded in blocking them near the shopping mall.

The occupants of a second vehicle, a Cressida, also attempted to pick up the suspects who fled on foot and allegedly attempted to contact the Nissan’s occupants repeatedly via cell phones.

The weapon has not been recovered, but cable ties were found underneath the Nissan, where the weapon was allegedly hidden.

Meanwhile, it came to light that the men were also sought in connection with poaching incidents in the Kruger National Park.