An anti poaching unit is the establishment of a law enforcement element that has the direct responsibility of wildlife protection in a designated area. Unit size will vary depending on the area of responsibility, the area threat level and the resources available. The unit is broken into smaller patrols that come under the command of a patrol leader.

The Duties of an Anti Poaching Unit

Their task is to patrol an area of responsibility in order to maintain an assertive presence against poaching activities. Such duties while on patrol are to arrest and apprehend poachers, remove snares, rescue trapped or injured wildlife, report on wildlife movements and to maintain both a covert and overt presence in the area. It is a dangerous and often thankless task with units often grimly reminded of the obstacles they face on an everyday basis. These units make up the front line in the war against poaching. They are an absolute necessity in all areas where wildlife is threatened by poachers.

Retraining Poachers

Veteran poachers are generally very well adapted to bush life and wildlife behavior. This knowledge allows them to exploit their target with maximum effect. When considering potential projects we encourage the employment of convicted poachers. This means one less poacher ‘off the street” so to speak, but it also ensures that the unit has a broader knowledge base to use in the course of their duties.

The Mindset

There are many various forms of poaching and many different types of offenders. One poacher was quoted as saying “today, if I don’t take a fish - I take an elephant”. Quite often it is a mindset that is being dealt with. Generally a distinct lack of conservational and ethical thinking is present. Leaving an animal to choke slowly in a snare over a three day period or killing a 1000kg animal to take a 2kg horn is completely inhumane and illogical. For poachers though it is a way of life. Some do it to feed their family, some for the trophy, but most do it to make a commercial living. Many are willing and able to kill members of anti poaching units to collect their prize. Regardless of the reasons there needs to be regulated control before it is too late.