The increasing numbers of rhinos that are slaughtered for their horns are becoming a big concern in conservation circles. According to the South African National Parks (SANParks), 71 rhinos have already been killed since the begining of this year.

"This figure encompasses fresh and old carcasses which have been found in the various parks and nature reserves countrywide," said SANParks CEO Mr David Mabunda in a statement on Monday.

The Kruger National Park has been affected the worst, with a reported 46 killings in the last couple of months. Last year, a total of 146 rhinos where gunned down in the park. Of these, two rhinos were allegedly killed by Lucas Muluzani Baloyi.

Baloyi appeared in the Regional Court in Louis Trichardt on Monday on one charge of theft, one of illegal activities in a special nature reserve, one of restricted activities involving threatened or protected species, without a permit, and one charge of the illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition.

Baloyi was arrested on June 14 last year, when six park rangers on patrol in Mbandweni near the Vlakteplaas area in the park allegedly caught him red-handed while he was hacking off the horn from the carcass of a white rhino.

While trying to flee from the park rangers, a gunfight erupted between him and the rangers. Baloyi was wounded four times and had to be taken to hospital for treatment.

According to information provided, a .375 Winchester rifle and several spent bullet rounds, as well as two other horns from another rhino, were found in Baloyi’s possession after his arrest. The four horns have an estimated value of R270 070, while the two rhinos that he allegedly gunned down were valued at R700 000.

After Baloyi had recuperated from his wounds, he was brought to court but was denied bail.

Baloyi’s trial, which was expected to commence on Monday, had to be postponed until later this year, when it was revealed that he had fallen ill with malaria and was too sick to make a court appearance. His case was postponed until June 13 and 14.