"In the first incident on 12 December, 2019, Pretoriuskop Rangers conducting follow-up operations during the early morning made contact with a group of three suspected poachers. 

"During the contact, one  suspect was arrested and the remaining two managed to make good their escape," the park said in a statement.

"In the second incident, Pretoriuskop Rangers conducting nocturnal counter-poaching operations, made contact with a group of three suspected poachers just before midnight.

"During the contact, two of the suspects were fatally wounded and the third managed to escape under the cover of darkness. A loaded heavy calibre firearm, ammunition and poaching equipment were recovered at the scene. 

"Follow up investigations relating to both the incidents are currently under way."

African News Agency