Babanango Game Reserve refutes false poaching claims circulating on social media

Babanango Game Reserve in Zululand, KwaZulu-Natal, has taken a firm stand against false claims circulating on social media, following the emergence of a video that misleadingly suggests poaching activities taking place within its grounds.

The reserve has come forward to clarify that this assertion is entirely inaccurate and detrimental to its ongoing conservation efforts.

Babanango marketing officer Mélanie Harmse said the reserve is aware of the video that incorrectly suggests poaching activity at Babanango Game Reserve.

“We want to assure our community, partners, and guests that this claim is entirely false,” Harmse said. 

“The animal shown in the video is one of our anti-poaching dogs, a female who had fallen ill and was rushed to Westville Vet Clinic to attend to her needs. She was not shot, and there was no incident of harm to her. While she may have appeared unwell, she was under the care of veterinary professionals at all times.” 

Harmse said the well-being of all animals, wild and working, is their top priority. 

“Our dedicated staff, veterinarians, and anti-poaching units work tirelessly to protect and care for every creature on our reserve. The spread of misinformation not only undermines these efforts but can cause unnecessary distress to those who support us,” Harmse said. 

She also asked that the video be removed to help prevent further misunderstanding and to protect the integrity of the important conservation work done at Babanango Game Reserve. 

Meanwhile, according to the 44-second video, Akira was shot and wounded by poachers. Akira was rushed to the hospital by a private ambulance service and escorted by metro police to Westville Veterinary Hospital. 

The video also shows file footage of Akira and a man believed to be her handler on the ground and in a helicopter. 

thobeka.ngema@inl.co.za