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South Africa Trains Hundreds to Combat Poaching with Forensic Techniques

The Wildlife Forensic Academy has trained over 500 participants since 2022, aiming to improve wildlife crime prosecutions through evidence-based investigations.

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Simulated crime scenes are stagged used stuffed animals
The Wildlife Forensic Academy is set inside a warehouse in a private game reserve
The school aims to curb poaching by teaching investigation skills to rangers, conservation officers and law enforcement

Overview

  • South Africa’s Wildlife Forensic Academy uses simulated crime scenes with taxidermied animals to train rangers, conservation officers, and law enforcement in forensic investigation skills.
  • Since its 2022 opening, the academy has trained over 500 individuals, including 89 rangers, to address gaps in evidence collection and prosecution.
  • Despite nearly 500 rhinos poached in 2023, only 36 cases resulted in convictions, highlighting the need for stronger forensic practices and legal follow-through.
  • The academy relies on tuition fees from European students to fund sponsorships for local rangers, reflecting resource constraints in broader anti-poaching efforts.
  • Limited law enforcement resources, community engagement, and low prosecution rates for less high-profile species like reptiles and vultures remain significant challenges.