Mpumalanga police spokesperson Captain Mpho Nonyane-Mpe says field rangers conducting routine patrols in the park encountered two suspects on foot at approximately 22:00.
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When rangers attempted to stop and apprehend them, a shootout ensued. During the exchange, one suspect sustained a gunshot wound on the leg and was arrested. He was transported to a medical facility for treatment. The second suspect remains at large. A manhunt is currently underway.
During the arrest, the suspect was found in possession of an unlicensed hunting rifle, eight rounds of ammunition, an axe and a knife.
He will face charges including possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, possession of dangerous weapons, trespassing in a national park, and contravening the Immigration Act and will appear in court soon.
