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To Protect Rhinos, This National Park Just Shoots People (50 Poachers Killed So Far)
Kaziranga National Park is a story of success when it comes to conservation of rhinos – but what they’ve done to achieve it is allowing its workers to shoot and even kill potential poachers. So far, the park has killed 50 people.
Rhinos are safe there – a century ago, there was only a handful of Indian one-horned rhinoceros. Now, the park hosts more than 2,400, which is two-thirds of the world’s population. However, little is talked about the fact that in 2015, more people were shot dead by park guards then the number of rhinos killed by poachers.
These people all went after rhino horn, as they could be sold for as much as $6,000 for 100g and are considerably more expensive than gold. They are mostly marketed as a miracle cure for everything from cancer to erectile dysfunction.
So yes, rhinos do need protection, but this has gone too far. National park’s workers can kill a person and get away with impunity. The question is, could this kind of punishment ever be justified? And how many innocent people were killed?
More info: Kaziranga National Park (h/t: bbc)
RELATED:
Kaziranga National Park is a story of success when it comes to conservation of rhinos – but they kill poachers
Image credits: PA
So far, the park has killed 50 people
Image credits: EPA
Rhinos are safe there – a century ago, there was only a handful of Indian one-horned rhinoceros
Image credits: Anupam Nath
Now, the park hosts more than 2,400, which is two-thirds of the world’s population
Image credits: Jonas Stenqvist
However, more people were shot dead by park guards then the number of rhinos killed by poachers
Image credits: PA
These people all went after rhino horn, as they could be sold for as much as $6,000 for 100g
Image credits: Emma Gatland
They are mostly marketed as a miracle cure for everything from cancer to erectile dysfunction
Image credits: Rudi Hulshof
So yes, rhinos do need protection, but this has gone too far
Image credits: Martin Harvey
National park’s workers can kill a person and get away with impunity
Image credits: Sebastien Degardin
The question is, could this kind of punishment ever be justified?And how many innocent people were killed?
Image credits: Michael Spain
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What do you think ?
Tiffany Kraha 7 years ago
Poachers know the risks when they try to kill endangered species. Something has got to be done. This isn't too far.
Brian Kemboi 7 years ago
Juan, I live in Kenya, Africa. People do not poach these animals for meat. No one does it not for close to 30 years now. The motivation is always the horns. Elephants are killed, de-horned and the carcass decompose. No one takes the meat. Currently, Kenya has the last three northern white rhinoes and they are past the point of reproduction. If such measures were taken, maybe these rhinoes would not be in this situation.
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Don Zirbel 7 years ago
YES I want them to be killed...they respect nothing but personal profit and care nothing about the rest of life that shares this planet. They themselves have proven there is no other way to stop them, so they can rot on the ground for all I care.
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Delta Force 7 years ago
.The question is how many innocent Rhinos and other species may have been killed? Ask that too.....
Adriana Bosman 7 years ago
1,175 rhinos poached and killed in 2015 alone. So extremely sad
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Darth Vader 7 years ago
My opinion, not enough poachers are being killed. You will know before you enter the area that if you trespass you will be shot, and if you still enter knowingly and you are not a poacher, then sorry, you are dumb. Rhino's are being killed at an alarming rate every single day. Soon there will be no more of them, but guess what there will still be moronic humans everywhere. When the rhino are gone, they will look at another animal as a target and they will be gone too if drastic measures like this are not put in place. Down vote this comment all you want, but that's the sad truth. I have no remorse for poachers who get shot regardless of their circumstances.
kytetiger 7 years ago
Poachers still got enough incentive to kill endangered species. As long as there is demands people will hunt these beautiful creature (and essential for the balance of our ecosystem). What if these people have a good enough job to provide for their families, and got the education to build a durable system? What if the people who usually buy these horns got an education and no longer believe in fairytales about the "vertue" of keratine?
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Márk Beregszászi 7 years ago
"However, little is talked about the fact that in 2015, more people were shot dead by park guards then the number of rhinos killed by poachers." Is that supposed to be gruesome? There are 8 billion people on this planet and 3,600 of those rhinos. Guess I will not shed tears for the poacher scum. At least one park knows what to do to protect these endangered animals.
PJ 7 years ago
It's actually quite simple. If you don't want to get killed, don't go into an area where you can be mistaken as a poacher. If you think the penalty is too far, then go arrest those at the root of the problem. Chances are you can't, and won't. China has already announced new measures against importing ivory and other keratin animal products. We're getting there, slowly.
Benson Wainaina 7 years ago
@Michelle every national park that has big game has an electric fence around it. It's actually illegal to sneak in there. No one wanders in there, there's parks where the Maasai live and even those have a fence outside. Also the park rangers are always locals...they aren't a foreign force brought from far away, they know anyone who might be there on legitimate business, those people also don't carry weapons or hide in the bush or try run when they see rangers...which am assuming makes it easy to know someone who's upto no good
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Aunt Messy 7 years ago
How many poachers have shot and killed witnesses (including park employees) to their crimes? Did anyone bother to look that up? I don't condone randomly killing people, but poachers are not sweet innocents. When this much money is at stake, things get violent.
Aunt Messy 7 years ago
It's a simple question, Arty. How many poachers have shot witnesses to their crimes? Google is your friend. Why are you so frightened to look it up? You keep spewing your nonsense, but you can't answer one simple question? *dismissed*
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Dorota 7 years ago
Innocent people? There is nothing innocent about them. Kill them, kill those bastards.
Crow King 7 years ago
Michelle are you f*****g kidding me? Are you actually sympathetic towards poachers? Why do I feel like you got some ivory in your house?
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Tim Hussey 7 years ago
No it has not gone too far. It has 100% worked. Nobody is forcing them to poach - the consequences are harsh but necessary. Stay out and live. Murder and steal and you get reap what you sew. 'Let Live and Live' in an amendment of the well known phrase.
Varun Chauhan 7 years ago
Well there is one more side of the story.These poachers are not some guys with guns killing Rhinos.They are part a of a bigger mafia and they are equipped with assault rifles like AK-47 and M-16. Rangers are often get shot or attacked as well & they in turn are equipped with simple rifle. http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/poachers-armed-with-ak-47-kill-another-rhino-in-kaziranga-toll-rises-to-17-this-year/story-7Ty8kBQRSGHTN6yiaiyOPL.html Recently there was even a documentary about this on Nat Geo(not very sure about the channel though). Some of these poachers are also part of bigger nexus who lend money to the locals and when they are unable to pay it back then mafia threaten the locals for their life in exchange of the information about the places where Rhinos can be found. So projecting it the way that rangers can kill anyone and can get away with that is not a fair assumption. And even after all this there are 2-3 failed and 1 successful attempt of poaching every month.
Casandra Nițescu 7 years ago
If this is the only way to stop morons from exterminating an entire species because of greed then I say do it. Those poachers deserved it.
भार्गव दत्ता 7 years ago
First of All please come to Assam once and check data's how many Rhinos killed every year in Assam. How many Forest Guards and Rangers are attacked by These poachers. As A son of Forest officer I have seen what situations my father and his colleague went through because of these poachers. So to save Rhino and their own life they shot down poachers isn't it fair enough ?
Brian Kemboi 7 years ago
I approve this measure. 1,300 rhinos were killed illegally in Africa last year alone. This killings is mainly to feed the appetite of Asian markets. Furthermore, 20,000 to 25,000 elephants are killed in Africa every year.
Einar Einarsson 7 years ago
China has banned import if ivory. Tiggs Benoit: hated really? Animal rights and protection in many countries are really bad..but to say asians are hated us not right.
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Reva Madhava 7 years ago
There are far too many humans on this planet. Shooting a few to save a species that is endangered because of human activity is necessary and good.
Mirriam Banda 7 years ago
How is a person that murders innocent species just for a pile of dead tress ever called Innocent? I am on the rangers' side because murderers like these have been warned multiple times but they do not seem to want to co-operate, and they continue to harm and destroy nature. This has not gone far because if the only way they will be able to protect the rhinos is by killing those murderers, then they might as well do it because they were warned.
Ken Flagor 7 years ago
Michelle- They are completely justified! And I have put a gun to someone's head for protection.
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Liliana Foltean 7 years ago
Wait, what?!??? You seriously asking how many people must die?????? Well, I hope all the people that hunt and kill animals! That' s what they deserve: a life for a life! We are too many of as on this planet already, and those guards are actually doing us a favor!
Atli Ingolfsson 7 years ago
Well in thoes situation yes. I can't say farmers or butchers sould be killed or the people that work or sell meat or people that buy meat for that matter..
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Jorge Martinez 7 years ago
50 people? This is a low number. Where can I sign? I want to contribute.
Lexi 7 years ago
I hate how this article is up in arms over poachers dying, what about the fact that poachers could wipe out the majority of an entire species within months if allowed free reign. The punishment fits the crime. I'm sorry but IMO poachers should all drop dead in a ditch, I'm not an advocate for violence, but even I would never hesitate to kill someone taking aim at an endangered species.
Neil Joseph 7 years ago
Driving a species to extinction causes irreparable harm to the ecosystem, and thus all life. We have the death sentence for murder. Driving species after species to extinction is equivalent to mass murder on a larger timeline. If no other punishment has dissuaded poachers, this might. The diversity of life on earth, of the food chain, is necessary for the sustainability of life. At some point, we need to start protecting animals from extinction.
Rafaela Freitas 7 years ago
Going too far? I'm sorry There are about 3,600 Rhinos and 7.5 BILLION humans. How is killing poachers of endangered species going too far? I don't think park guards even have a choice anymore. Poachers are scum and will not be missed in humanity's gene pool.
Tiggs Benoit 7 years ago
OMG justice, finally....thank you thank you thank you you made my year
Paul Byrne 7 years ago
That is a brilliant approach, there are currently 8 billion people on this planet, it is project that in 40 years the population will be 32 billion, with the amount of rhinos left on this planet I think a few dead poachers is a fair trade for the survival of a species.
Svilen Dinev 7 years ago
"How many innocent people were killed?" They would not be there and shot if they were innocent.. Don't kill and you won't be killed, it's not hard to comprehend
Crow King 7 years ago
Michelle holy s**t are you for real? Do you really believe that it's alright to kill to extinction because there's money in it? There's no way you're a real person, you have to be troll
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Kimberly Puchniarz 7 years ago
Of course the killing of poachers can be justified!! Maybe, just maybe other poachers will get the damn message of what will happen to them!
Beverly Hoffman 7 years ago
YES it IS Justified!! Rhinos are totally helpless & can Not defend themselves!! As for your stupid comparison of numbers of each? They are gangs Of 5 to a dozen WITH machetes, knives slashing the horns off these helpless animals & leaving them defenseless!! There Should be a Bounty on the poachers!!
John Johannesen 7 years ago
The only thing that's gone too far is poaching. This is absolutely justified. Poachers are not innocent people, so no innocent people were killed.
Kristine Zuberga 7 years ago
Innocent people?!? Are u f*****g kidding me? They're not innocent, let those f*****s be shot and gelded! F*****g poachers they deserve it!
Zori the degu 7 years ago
Oh and I forgot...For people who disagree with me, if you can afford an expensive gun, then what`s the problem taking care for your family? I know some people are forced to kill animals to live, but they usually don`t own such weapons and they kill really small number. We are omnivores, it`s normal. But killing animals to become rich... It`s astonishing such heartless people still exist.
Simanta Das 7 years ago
Hi! Namaskar. This national Park is in my place. Rhinos are our pride. we will protect them at ant cost. yes we are killing Poachers...not the innocent one....killing of Poachers going on and we will continue it. My government is doing the right thing and we are with the government...one more thing where was the western media when Rhinos were killed by poachers...Why suddenly BBC has so much interest in our matter... These are our animals, These Jungles are our and law is our...By the way i am uploading only one pic and that will tell you what poachers do with these Rhinos..We will give punishment to the Poachers.... 29-06-15-K...937a64.jpg 
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
I support what you're doing 110%!! I've been begging for ALL PARKS on the African Continent to take these same measures! GOD BLESS ALL RANGERS!! Their bravery against these scum, fighting with primitive weapons, while those lowlife shits murder them and the wildlife with the best of machinery, should be met with the exact same punishment - it fits the crime!!! The mamby-pamby passive ways have not done a single thing to stop these poacher scum! They probably laugh at any attempts to educate, train, etc that the passives would continue to do... meanwhile Rangers and Wildlife continue to be murdered! And the local judges clearly do nothing and basically just set these monsters free with minimal fines/fees so they can do it all again - so now the brave and fearless Rangers are our only hope to save all of humanity's wildlife - as all humans can trace their roots to Africa! HANG ALL POACHERS ON THE HIGHEST TREES TO ROT!
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Dan Hoover 7 years ago
Humans will never be happy until everything, other than themselves, are dead. All because horny males in already overpopulated countries have this idea that success is only measured by reproduction. If you can't get it up, dude, spare the elephants and rhinos and buy yourself some viagra. If not, take Scrooge's advice: "die and decrease the surplus poulation".
rakuninaru 7 years ago
"They are mostly marketed as a miracle cure for everything from cancer to erectile dysfunction" such level of ignorance up to our days...
A Mueller 7 years ago
How many humans are on the planet - and how many rhinos? (Or elephants, tigers, sharks,……… )Every country should handle it like that. Yes, some little percentage of humans will be killed innocently. But always remember, its 100% of innocent animals who where killed by the poachers. GO ON -KILL POACHERS! In fact they asked for it
Mohammed Akram Ali Mehkri 7 years ago
Yes, its the need of the hour. Poachers are basically trespassing on protected land, killing defenseless animals for personal gains. They are well aware of the risks involved. Would we even question this if a murderer was roaming amidst our societies and if police shot him/her down. Park Rangers are basically police in the wild and build a relationship with the environment over a periods of time and also gain some level of acceptance by the animals in the wild. They risk a lot to ensure the animals - endangered or not - are protected. And more importantly they have been empowered by the laws - local and international (where applicable) to do the needful.
Barbara Caccavale Fixsen 7 years ago
The numbers are proof.... this works...... I do not think they have gone too far.... keep up the good work!!!
Ajish Doley 7 years ago
I am a local here and the figure is wrong at your end coz every year number of rhino's killed is more than 7-10 in average..Sometime even the procher's tranquilize and cut off the horn alive and it is really inhuman..
Markandey Pathak 7 years ago
These poachers derserve this punishment. Hats off to park guards. Keep punishing those inhuman idiots.
Norman van Druten 7 years ago
YAY!!! Applause to that! "Save the Rhino's - hunt a poacher". As all these people below have commented, poachers have no regard for lives of these and many other animals, only for personal monetary gain. How many Rhino's and other species have to be killed before we take a hard line approach to poaching? I absolutely give these rangers a double thumbs up. Keep up the good work!!
Missy Griggs 7 years ago
I think this oak is a trend setter. I've got no sympathy for an a*****e who would kill an endangered animal for one tiny part if it's body. Keep.shooting poachers!! They're a species that SHOULD be hunted to extinction. Kudos to the park!! Can I donate ammo?
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
Love It! I think someone should start a fund to provide these brave Rangers with guns of the newest, best quality and the ammo that goes with it!! HERE, HERE!!
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Christopher Hamilton 7 years ago
Watch the documentary Virunga sometime. Poachers murder park rangers all the time. They are disgusting people all around and killing them isn't "going too far."
Lewisa Figurative Sculpture 7 years ago
I am tired of human lives being put ahead of animal lives. What makes us so special? ALL life should be honored and protected. At nearly 7.5 billion people on the planet we outnumber nearly every other species on the planet!
Mehmet Gurbuz 7 years ago
And how many innocent people were killed? Euhh come again ? Innocent? Lol just add more bullets to their head.
Vikrant Singh 7 years ago
Absolutely justified, nothing's gone too far, I hope this is just the beginning. We humans deserve it. The worst of all species.
Nyssa Malouf 7 years ago
The Rhinos and many other endangered animals need to be protected. The poachers know they are doing the wrong thing. I don't feel that this approach is taking it too far. Its just giving back what the poachers are instigating. I do not thing that a life of an animal is any less important then a human life.
Abhimanyu Halder 7 years ago
very much justified... if human can take lives of the animal then there should be very strict law like this to help them survive.
Leke Sokoli 7 years ago
Innocent people killed? Is america really this f*****g stupid? A reporter sees progress to save an entire race of rhino and still brings it back to humans dying and how it's not right. F**k whoever made this article. Seriously. It is 100% against the law to hunt rhinos, just as it is 100% against the law to kill humans. If a human risks or attempts to kill another human, a 3rd party human can come in and save their life and it is 100% justifiable. Same goes for rhinos and any other form of life protected by law, if you see someone trying to take a lawfully protected life. Feel free to blow their brains out.
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
Just because this reporter that wrote this asinine article may or may not be an American... believe me when I say, the majority of us American's do NOT feel the same way. There will always be passive idiots (of every country) that think they can fight violence with non-violent ways, but this has gone on LONG ENOUGH and it should be clear to even the passives that their s**t isn't working... meanwhile the murdering of wildlife continue to rise and they get fewer and fewer. Clearly, they respect nothing but the bullet. A bullet is more than they deserve and is too good for them... I sincerely wish these scumbag poachers die horrible, painful deaths!! KILL ALL WILDLIFE MURDERERS IN THE MOST HEINOUS WAY POSSIBLE IS MY MOTTO!
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Manish Mehta 7 years ago
If you have a problem about poachers being shot,give a workable alternative. Otherwise-- Stop being judgemental! In India , prosecuting poachers is next to impossible. And they never stop. So! Appreciate the results ,not the methods
Ryan Falcone 7 years ago
I am totally okay with this. 50 people? Pppfhhhtt, who cares? That's nothing to the amount of people on Earth and the amount of animals that have been poached. I hope they shoot more people. Stay the hell away from the rhino's or get shot. It's that simple.
Martin Holáň 7 years ago
Article asks: how many innocent people were killed? Well. They were NOT innocent.
David Kurth 7 years ago
This is truly a case where the end justifies the means! When the poachers thought they could kill rhinos with impunity, rhinos died. Now the poachers will try to find other easy money! Good solution!
Kalyan Mohan 7 years ago
i belong to the same state and same district, from what source you have collected this information, there are more informations of rhinos being killed and poachers ran free after that, please stop misguiding people with misinformations, also all the snaps that are posted here are of two horned rhinos, in Kaziranga there are one horned rhinos, not two horned, please atleast post the snaps correctly.
Adriana Bosman 7 years ago
"However, little is talked about the fact that in 2015, more people were shot dead by park guards then the number of rhinos killed by poachers." Seriously? 1,175 rhinos were poached in 2015, and a lot more talking needs to happen around this... 1,175 killed rhinos!!
David Stalder 7 years ago
When I toured Kaziranga 20 years ago, the guards were heavily armed & very vigilant. And I was glad for that! Visits to Kaziranga are allowed only with guided tours, so anyone sneaking through the reserve is already knowingly breaking the law & probably up to no good. I wouldn't worry about the guards shooting large numbers of innocent civilians because innocent civilians prob. know not to wander around the park on their own. This article's biased against endangered species protection. It's written as though there were an equivalence between the lives of rhinos & of poachers, like it'd be 'fair' if more rhinos were killed than poachers. It's also written like the guards who shoot armed, dangerous criminals are themselves murderers who can "get away with impunity" [sic], when in fact they're doing their jobs & it's crucial that they do so. The Kaziranga guards deserve commendation, not condemnation.
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
My exact feelings about this article! Reporters are to report the news, all the news (not just their preference) and their personal feelings should NOT be involved, except perhaps in their byline or side comment. FACTS PLEASE, JUST THE FACTS!
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Craig Lewis 7 years ago
This is not too far, good on them for protecting the rhino's against human greed and stupidity. This should be standard practice in my opinion for endangered species
Larry Mosca 7 years ago
Great. Kill them all! And kudos to those who are protecting those beautiful marvelous incredible animals! Thank you. Keep up the great work.
Paul Firmin 7 years ago
Go after the middle men as well; the ones who sell it on to the Far Eastern buyers.
Jandre Kroeze 7 years ago
I wish they couldkill the Chinese agents who facilitate and/or send out these poachers. They dont care about dead poachers as they keep finding new ones. Killthe snake by the head, not the tail.
Partha Bora 7 years ago
I am from this place jst 40km away from kaziranga national park. In the year 2014 almost 3 rhinos were hunted every month by poachers. These poachers not only killed animals they have killed forest guards too. And shockingly these poachers hv alleged link with terrorists from myanmar.. No international media were running d news at dat time when so many rhinos were killed.. but with d change of d govt in assam many poachers hd been apprehended and many were killed in encounters. Rhino poaching last year hv decreased alot. Isn't this a commendable improvemnt or shld we hv to wait for evry rhinos to b killed by poachers n terrorists??.. why do u show only one side of d story??
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
EXCELLENT POINT! Reporters are supposed to report all news, not just what they want or approve of. Respond directly to this newspaper and ask your question - would be interesting to see their answer(s). Millions of people are of like mind as you!! Kaziranga Park is a shining example that all parks on the African Continent should follow!!
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Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
I was so damn happy when I read the headline of this article!! I yelled out, "WooHoo!" It's like my wildest dreams have come true!! Now, all the other parks need to get onboard by example! KUDOS TO Kaziranga National Park & their Courageous Rangers!!! Keep up the great work! On another note, this reporter should be truly ashamed of herself for writing such a biased article with clear pro-poacher sympathies. Not only is it wrong, but a REAL reporter is supposed to be neutral and report the news, all the news, with stats to back up their writing, not interject their obviously personal feelings throughout. Those should be contained to their byline or side comment... not shape the whole article! This is what's wrong with so many reporters today, they keep interjecting their personal beliefs in their writings. People don't care what you think personally... we strictly want the facts, ALL OF THE FACTS and with proof, so that we can make up our own minds one way or the other!
Bradley Fried 7 years ago
Gone too far? I think mass extinction, habitat destruction, and climate change caused by human overpopulation and greed has gone too far. If this is getting results, post signage and make sure the warnings are clear, but keep doing it.
Mahatma Caine Jeeves 7 years ago
Liz, please spare us the "innocent people" c**p. The park rangers engage when someone is carrying a Kalashnikov. Carry a weapon in a highly-poached area, get shot. End of story.
John Finlayson 7 years ago
If that will help save the Rhinos then I have no problem with it. They feel nothing hen they kill a Rhino why should we feel anything when they get killed.
Mike Dougherty 7 years ago
You don't think these poachers would kill a park ranger to get away??
Claudia Espindola 7 years ago
What are you supposed to do? Go and ask them nicely?, hell no! I rather have one less poucher than a guard or a rhino taken.
Bob Thorton 7 years ago
THESE MAGNIFICENT CREATIONS OF GOD KNOWN AS THE RHINOCEROS FACE EXTINCTION BECAUSE OF HUMAN CRIMINALS KNOWN AS POACHERS. SHOOT TO KILL ANYONE WHO IS POACHING THESE INCREDIBLE BEINGS WHO HAVE EXISTED ON THIS PLANET FOR 50,000,000 YEARS AND HAVE NO NATURAL PREDATORS, EXCEPT ONE, HUMANS WHO SLAUGHTER THEM FOR ILLEGAL PROFIT...THERE SHOULD BE NO DEBATE...IF YOU ATTEMPT TO POACH A RHINOCEROS, PREPARE TO DIE, PERIOD. MAY GOD BLESS THE BRAVE MEN AND WOMEN WHO SERVE AS PARK GUARDS AND PROTECT THESE ICONIC AND INCREDIBLE ANIMALS!!!
Frank Höppener 7 years ago
Yes, this is justified. Nothing else helps. Surely policy papers and politicians don't.
Iwan Setiawan 7 years ago
They do the right punishment, others country can't stop the tiger killer for the skin, elephant for the ivory, many peoplr so greedy for money
Joshua Dunshea 7 years ago
Yeah more people are shot dead because there are more of them and barely any rhinos. The poaches know what they are getting into so if they get shot dead then good riddance! Innocent people!?? Wow are you Pro-Poaching because from the looks of the article you are all about protecting poaches... ha! what a joke. Poachers are human scum that put money above creatures of the earth.
Leslie Delli-Venneri 7 years ago
No sympathy here. If more places adopted this policy the killing of big animals for greed would slow way down. If you can't stand the heat get outta the kitchen.
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
LOL! The 'Dump the Chump/Trump' family are ALL TOO STUPID to know the difference between wildlife and poacher! We'd have to paint a target or animal's face on the back of poachers before they'd know what to shoot!
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Ethan Walker 7 years ago
What the f**k are you talking about innocent people, as your own article claims the people killed are poachers hunting endangered animals because a large chunk of really stupid people are willing to pay a lot of money for something useless. I say all the power to them if this is what it takes for people to stop killing endangered animals, it's not like there is a shortage of humans anyways.
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
AGREED! It should be the FIRST policy implemented in any such cases around the world. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH OF ALL OF IT!!! It's not like humans are on the brink of extinction. This planet could stand to lose a few million evil scum. I, for one, wouldn't shed a tear.
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Kain Baker 7 years ago
Umm good!!! Why should they be aloud to kill an animal and not expect the same thing happen to them?! There's like 7 billion of us and 2400 of them! Hardly a concern
Tara Mitrovka 7 years ago
Drastic? Not at all. Poachers are criminal trespassers hell bent on annihilating species and destroying the planet. They murder anyone and anything standing between them and their target. They know full well the consequences are that they will be shot on sight. Their greed is greater than fear of death.
Emmanuel Dowell 7 years ago
I'm fine with workers killing poachers... I wish more parks would do this to protect animals. I hate most of human society... we are careless, distructive, immature,and cruel. I would hug each one of these workers for killing a poacher... it's not right what these types of humans do, just kill for the fun of it being exotic or for horns and tusks... it's horrible... and I don't believe this is "too far" to me this is birthing more than karma. And I'm glad it's there. Also happy to see this breed of rhinos 🦏 coming back. :3
Vicki Crutchfield 7 years ago
What this article does not tell is how many rangers were killed by armed poachers, before they were trained to shoot back. This is a dangerous job. I am glad to hear they have found people willing to risk their lives to keep endangered species safe.
Trigger Clapham 7 years ago
Apparently none. The leader says "These people all went after rhino horn, as they could be sold for as much as $6,000 for 100g" So they must all have been guilty. If an innocent had wandered into an area where people are assumed to be poachers then either pushed their luck or paid the price for being stupid.
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
Yeah, it's clear this reporter is clearly trying to sway people.... I think she's pro-poacher. Reporters are supposed to be neutral and report all news and if they harbor any feelings one way or the other, it should be contained to just their byline or a side note.
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karhu GG 7 years ago
Its only right that they kill all the illegal hunters. there is too much humans in this planet anyway.
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
My thoughts exactly! I can't think of a better way to "thin the human herds" and do away with evil at the same time! KUDOS to this park and may all the rest follow by example!
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Ned Collie 7 years ago
If they are pointing a gun at these wonderful animals, then kill them!!! they know what they are doing is wrong and risky ....... It doesn't matter how they think they can justify it ..... treat them like the prey they hunt!
Deborah Cole 7 years ago
What were they doing there? They are not innocent they are there for one reason & one reason only to poach, so if they are killed that's on them!!! I have ABSOLUTELY NO SYMPATHY for The POS!!!
Paresh Jai 7 years ago
A life is a life....whether Rhino or Human. If this is what it is going to take to save our wildlife then let it happen. The majority of human beings have very little respect for wildlife am glad to see other human beings standing up for our wildlife. I support this approach and am happy to hear it is working.
Clair Hart 7 years ago
They should've been doing this for years... poaching is abhorrent, is leaving beautiful animals to die in agony and funds terrorism as well ... shoot them all. Bastards.
Ritwick Chakraborty 7 years ago
Dear Elizabeth, get out of that fancy cubicle of yours and visit the jungle once. You know why Kaziranga is a success? Because the people there love the rhinos as family. And it is justified to protect your family. Humanitarian considerations are for humans. Not poachers.
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
I think she needs a new profession... perhaps as a "potential" poacher. LOL
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Mehtab Ahmed 7 years ago
Most of the images of Rihno used here are from Africa not from Kaziranga.
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
Glad some have realized this reporter has NOT done her homework and lives in a glass house, obviously.
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Dani Stoian 7 years ago
The poachers deserve to be killed straight away and their bodies left as food for the eagles.
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
Now, the other National Parks need to grow some real balls and follow by example of KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK! WE LOVE YOU!
Ivan Mostert 7 years ago
I think what the park is doing is 100% accurate poachers doesnt think twice before killing a innocent rhino why should rangers think twice about killing poacher what goes around comes around... well done to Kaziranga national park job well done keep it up
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
FINALLY!!! YES!! YES!!! YES!!! It's about time!!!! These scumbag mother f*****g poachers have it coming!! It's all the will understand or respect - an eye for an eye! For years and years, all the weeny-wishy-washy methods have been tried with ZERO success! As a matter of fact, it's never been worse than it is now! Besides, with the widespread government and political corruption... forget any legal retribution or proper jail time and fines! KUDOS TO KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK!!!
Jason Wood 7 years ago
It is not too far. Poachers know what they're doing and their greed will either cost the world another rink species or it will cost their lives. It's a choice the guards shouldn't have to make but I'm so grateful they're making the right call and protecting this beautiful and unique creatures.
Joye Roberts 7 years ago
good for them, poachers know and will do anything to kill the animals they want to exploit , about time the poachers know what it feels like. KARMA sure can be a b***h
Jamalia Roblon 7 years ago
if this is the best way to protect them from greedy humans ... so be it
Kathy Cook 7 years ago
I'm totally for it....I thought they were dehorning the rhinos, so there was nothing for poachers to go after...or painting them so they were useless to poachers.. but it they get caught poaching,,, they know its against their laws...so, they know the punishment..
Kelleen Louchart 7 years ago
I'm thinking if you are walking around on a rhino reserve with a gun (and are not one of the rangers), they have every right to assume you are poaching and should shoot you.
Kelsey Boondoggler 7 years ago
How tf can the person who wrote this article justify calling poachers "innocent?!" F**k the poachers and f**k the author for that
Andrew Lymburn 7 years ago
Its time poachers and those associated with them got treated the same way they treat the animals and actually people that might happen to get in their way. The death penalty is not too high a price for these "animals"! .... and education of the masses who use the end products from this illegal practice just isnt working yet.
Rick Hassall 7 years ago
I condone zero tolerance of poachers. I understand that many of them see it as a livelyhood, a job, but they are causing a species of animal to face extinction. I would not accept rhino extinction even if their horns did have miraculous healing powers, but they do not. Their deaths are pointless, other than to line the pockets of those still living in the dark ages, or of con men! So f**k em!
Edward Mesa 7 years ago
I have been saying for years I'd be on board to do that. Sign me up. That's how you get people to stop. But it has to be on two fronts, they have to go after the business ringleaders too. Kill the head and scare the employees out of those 'jobs'. It's the same as if an intruder comes on your property to cause harm, you are legally aloud to shoot or use deadly force. These poachers are coming on to refuge protected lands. Why is this even a question? If the people were innocent, they wouldn't be there poaching. 💥
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
Same here!! I just pray all the parks get onboard by example before it's too late!
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Jack Spake 7 years ago
Justified. Should be a world wide law to execute any poacher caught killing an endangered species for what ever the reason.
David Lyle 7 years ago
The Guards are a huge risk for their own lives, as the poachers will murder them to get the horns. It's like guarding the bank, your $$, the guards and robbers.
Karen Gasca 7 years ago
No this is not too far. These people are greedy and only think of themselves and monetary gain. Maybe more of these idiots will be removed from the planet.
Todor Pavlov 7 years ago
Shame on you for sharing this stupid article! You are proving once again that you are not more than an yellow daily webpage! Poachers are criminals! They should be killed! Because of poachers we are losing the most rare species. You should be ashamed of taking the poachers side. If you have any information about innocent people killed - share it, make statistics and do a proper article! Like this you look like on the side of the poachers! Brainless idiots and fake journalists - this is what you are!
Todor Pavlov 7 years ago
The question is how stupid this article is? How do you dare to put this on point! Poachers are criminals! They should be killed! There are no innocent people killed and if they are you should make a proper article with statistics inside. Not to make it like you support poachers! Shame on you!
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
My thoughts too. She needs a new profession... perhaps as a poacher at this park?
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Dalene McIntosh 7 years ago
I don't think its gone too far. Hopefully the poachers will eventually be too afraid to go after Rhino. Frankly, it's justified. Don't wanna die? Don't poach!
Laura Kidd 7 years ago
If they're poaching they deserve what they get. Maybe it will deter future poachers if they know there is a good chance they'll get a bullet in the brain!
Tricia Bower 7 years ago
Poachers know the score when entering the park.If they are stupid enough to believe they can get away with it then tough on them.These and all other animals need protecting from savages.They enter,they die.it's their choice.Yes i think it should happen.It's pure greed,money,money,money for the life of an innocent animal!!!
Edward Hyde 7 years ago
Can we all have a go & line up the corrupt politicians who are taking a cut from poaching too and the chinese billionaires who buy the "product"?. All seems reasonable to me, the rhinos cant shoot but wardens can for them
Ian LukeMitchell 7 years ago
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/mar/06/poachers-kill-satao-ii-elephant-kenya-tsavo-big-tusker This article was posted about a week ago. In my opinion, kill these scummy poachers and hang their dead carcasses around the perimeter of the national parks as a warning to all the other would-be poachers.
Ian Mair 7 years ago
With formal protectors being outgunned and killed for years, this is where it is at. The times are desperate for these species. The same poachers are persistent, repetitive and deadly. It is indeed that dire. Kill or be killed along with the very last of these magestic beings.
Rupert Bauer 7 years ago
My only concern i it doesn't say poachers, it says potential poachers.
Arye Bognar 7 years ago
They're potential because they didn't get to kill any rhinos because the rangers defended the rhinos and themselves.
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Joanna Chavez 7 years ago
Tough, they can stop when the poachers of all animals are endangered.
Karl Watson 7 years ago
I think that this approach should be adopted in Africa as well....it seems to work in protecting the rhino population.
Randall Selinger 7 years ago
Kill them all and let God sort it out....poachers are scum, the more dead, the better!
Lin Clarke 7 years ago
Let's be honest, there is no way the human race will become extinct, barring a catastrophe! Let's protect the innocent and endangered - their lives are far more valuable than a handful of poachers!!!!!
Mary Marineau 7 years ago
I 100% agree with these rangers ! These poachers need to be shot and killed for every endangered animal they have killed and have taken pictures with because they are scums of this earth! Keep protecting those beautiful animals at all costs! There is more humans on this planet and we are the biggest cause of all the animals going to extinction because of greed and luxury at the expense of the animals lives! They see the warning signs and don't listen to the warnings so they deserve to be killed for the're actions because there actions always have a reaction and that is to save the Rhinos by taking your life first! Keep up the good work.
Barry Lauritzen 7 years ago
The answer to the question "can this kind of punishment ever be justified?" is regrettably yes. Poaching and smuggling have always been dangerous, indeed deadly occupations. I'm sure they know the risks when they undertake to loot the park of its resources. I hope there are safeguards in place to prevent collateral damage, but extreme criminality sometimes demands extreme enforcement.
Craig Goeke 7 years ago
If this was a pack of dangerous predators making their way into an area with a limited number of humans people wouldn't think twice about use mercilessly killing them and they would be doing it out of their natural drive to survive. As for how many innocent people were killed? That's a good question but the number of innocent people has to be really low, and I would guess basically all of them were purely accidental. You've got to be packing some serious fire power to bring a rhino down not to many innocent people are going to wander into the depths of an animal preserve carrying that kind of heat.
Bhargav Sarma 7 years ago
First of all, know which pics to use. The rhinos in Kaziranga are one-horned. Next and more importantly, anyone who is willing to take a life for money deserves nothing but a bullet between the eyes.
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
FINALLY!!! YES!! YES!!! YES!!! It's about time!!!! These scumbag mother f*****g poachers have it coming!! It's all the will understand or respect - an eye for an eye! For years and years, all the weeny-wishy-washy methods have been tried with ZERO success! As a matter of fact, it's never been worse than it is now! Besides, with the widespread government and political corruption... forget any legal retribution or proper jail time and fines! KUDOS TO KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK!!! I LOVE YOU GUYS!!!!
Joye Roberts 7 years ago
good for them, poachers are not above doing any thing to kill , its about time they figure out what it feels like, karma can be a b***h
Jamalia Roblon 7 years ago
if this is the best way to protect them for greedy humans... so be it
Lorenzianius LeBello 7 years ago
not a single one of those poachers was an "innocent person" this system works and is completely justified
Kirstie Byers 7 years ago
UHM, they're not "innocent" people being killed if they're poachers. Ugh
Preetha Pradeep 7 years ago
They are doing the right thing. If an unauthorized person is wandering in a protected National Park, he cannot be given the benefit of doubt. He knows the risks, and deserves what he had coming to him.
Dusten Rowzee 7 years ago
YEs the people do have a right to shoot poachers, they murder animals for profit, not meat, skin or hides that kill these creatures for their horns, something that could be stolen using tranq darts instead, They are thoroughly told if your caught you will be killed so it's far game to me
David Fields 7 years ago
Good for the park. Too many legal systems let criminals get off scot-free on technicalities while incarcerating innocent people on those same technicalities. Personally, if someone is caught in the act of a crime, the punishment should befit the crime. You shoot or appear ready to shoot a rhino, then expect to get shot yourself.
Chris Walken 7 years ago
They knew the LAW. Poachers have proven time and time again that they cannot live within a society. F**k 'em!
Debapratim Dutta 7 years ago
Well Rhino's of Kaziranga are One horned rhino..you have shown here two horn rhinos..So correct it. And Rhino's are killed ruthlessly for their horns and if you see how the poachers kill rhino and Cut their Horns while they are alive you will know the level of torture they have to go while alive. So its the right decision to Shoot at sight for poacher..No one is innocent or Civilian..they should be punished in highest order possible.
Vickie Mitchell 7 years ago
I am perfectly fine with this. Should be policy at all endangered species preserves.
Chris Cimorelli 7 years ago
How can you call them innocent people when in the same article you also called them POACHERS? What is the actual count? The article says more poachers have been killed than rhinos. So you're saying the poachers actually pose a threat. Not only that, they're trespassing. I just... I don't see the problem with killing them? I don't think anyone should ever go on a wanton killing spree and just kill people for the sake of it. But this isn't that.
Vickie Mitchell 7 years ago
Perfectly fine with this. It's working so should be the policy at all endangered species preserves. The animals aren't there because there is time to screw with your lack of morals - stay the hell away and leave them alone.....or die....your choice.
Robert Roberts 7 years ago
Totally one sided article. Not a word about how many park rangers have been killed by poachers over the years, not to mention how well armed the poachers are. I wonder what the Rhino population would be if those 50 had not been killed?
Rhiannon Bender 7 years ago
Don't try and kill a f*****g Rhino n ya won't get shot. There ya go. The Rhinos are defenseless against the poachers, so the park is defending them, they're only evening the fight.
Honza Micka 7 years ago
I am sorry, but I think this is as right as it can be. They are defending endangered species for b******t believes and money. People from park should be allowed to shoot after poachers. Its not a crime, its more like a self defense. I don't think that any of these people that shot a poacher should be punished. These guys are doing the right thing. Poachers would kill these creatures, there is just a few of rhinos. But too many humans. And also what do you mean how many innocent people were killed. If you are armed, and you are too close to these creatures or you are aiming at them. From that moment you are potencial danger.
Carl Schubert 7 years ago
We should adopt the same response for heroin dealers. Catch them dealing, execute them on the spot. Don't waste time and money on the courts.
Miranda Vetwrap Squisher 7 years ago
I think it's justifiable. Humans are destroying our planet and for selfish reasons. The question was how many innocent people are killed but how many innocent animals are killed? If it was natural selection that'd be one thing, but we are depleting habitats and adding more animals to the endangered list all the time. And if it's a reserve there should be no trespassing anyways.
Thad Lucken 7 years ago
the communists are taking over south africa as we speak. all their animals are going to be chopped up for bushmeat when the place goes venezuela. then the chinese will come in and start raising rhinos for horn and harvesting it to sell to asians with money to burn. but the liberals wont let us sell the horn and farm it so they africans just keep trying to steal it.
Skye Wilson 7 years ago
S**t! I actually had that same idea! You're so right! China is practically treating African like their long lost child. Heck, I read they're even going to build a Disneyland in one city. I think they need another continent to dump some of their 1.37 BILLION people and spread them out and they've chosen Africa. God help every animal on that continent!!
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Jazmin Sapphire 7 years ago
Innocent ???? Are you kidding me. If they know they be kill and still venture in they are not innocent.
Jenypher Martin 7 years ago
I think it is awesome!!!!!! How dare people think it is okay to shoot and kill a rhino, an endangered species!!!! An eye for an eye right here!!!! More places should be doing this and maybe just maybe people would atop playing GOD with animals lives!!!!!
Caroline Greening 7 years ago
Why does this article assume that humans have more right to life than the rhinos? That arrogance has caused extinction, and devastated this earth.
Allen Jeyarajasingam 7 years ago
I totally agree to the shoot to kill policy.When things have come to a critical stage with all other avenues exhausted, killing becomes the only option. Much as I would very much like to embark on and solely depend on both law enforcement and awareness programmes, there are times short cuts are absolutely necessary. By the way please remove the images of both Black and White Rhinos here - irrelevant in the context of Kaziranga.
Timothy Choltco 7 years ago
There are almost 7 billion humans. The death of 50, to protect 2,400 of the remaining 3,600 members of a species, is justifiable. These people are killing for profit, as only the horns are taken. The "they're feeding their families" defense is bull. These people need a "fence" to sell the contraband. This is a poaching ring of "snake oil salesmen" to make massive profits on extinction.
Carlynn Kratzer 7 years ago
"Gone too far"? Who wrote this article? A poacher? They deserve to be shot for their crimes. You play stupid games, you win stupid prizes.
C.M. Terrell 7 years ago
The writer needs to go see this personally. In the case of this park, these Rangers are vastly outnumbered and often outgunned. They aren't just shooting innocent people. I've been to the DRC where they pay a bounty per poacher killed, and they do so on the Gold standard. It's called rules of engagement, not the wild west. Signs are clearly posted, you enter here and the security force has the legal authority from the Govt. to put you down. Kind of like sneaking into Ft. Knox. You know the risk, you go for it, you get popped.
Lori Wilson 7 years ago
Anyone want to send a note to the CEO of Jimmy John's and tell him this is a GREAT place to go hunting?
Mark Gall 7 years ago
Yes, and the primary reason is China, with some other Asian countries.
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Maria Rohlen 6 years ago
There is no innocent poachers, kill them and kill their families. When the bill is to expensive no one want to pay.
Jose Palmieri 6 years ago
No far at all to save these animals from ourselves before extinction comes for us too in the end.
Ruth Richardson 6 years ago
The last statement is crazy. How many more innocent people should be killed? they are not innocent. They are there to kill the Rhino. They know they aren't allowed to kill them so they are breaking the law. And if they are willing to take a chance and still try to kill the Rhino then they have to know they may be killed. They are criminals when they break the law.
Lorelei Horry 7 years ago
First of all, you must have poachers in your family ( or yourself) because you are clearly a sympathizer and supporter of poaching.
Rebekah Legion Journals 7 years ago
All national parks & sanctuaries need to be granted the right for their staffs to be armed with guns to protect the animals & themselves against poachers. Other parks are still fighting for this right & as a result the innocent care takers of these almost extinct species are frequently killed by poachers as are the beautiful animals who die slow & horrifically painful deaths at the always armed hands of these evil & far from innocent poachers. If 50 poachers have been killed then the staff at this park are doing an amazing job!
Rebekah Legion Journals 7 years ago
All sanctuaries & parks need to go the way of this one. Park stuff must be able to kill poachers. Poachers are not innocent people. They are ruthless killers & need to be eradicated from society. Rhinos are precious & must be protected at all costs as They are now almost extinct due to poachers. Poachers are bad people with guns & in other parks it's the poachers who kill innocent people because those innocent park staff are denied the right to protect themselves against these poachers & are expected to protect the Rhinos & Elephants without guns. This always fails because poachers always have guns & don't care who they kill.
Sergio Steiner 7 years ago
GOOD AFTERNOON! I THINK THEY ARE CORRECT,EVEN IF EVENTUALLY HAPPENS SOME NON FAIR DEATH!!!! POACHERS MUST BE EXTERMINED!! FINALLY THE GOVERNMENT IS WORKING MORE EFFICIENTLY!! CON GRA TU LA TIONS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Swiss Chalet Manager 7 years ago
sounds like no innocent people were killed based on what was written-- why then ask the question?
Sharon Fox 7 years ago
Definitely kill the poachers! I wish all national parks and rangers did. They are maggots that should not breed and teach their children their disgusting ways.
Cheryl Fontaine 7 years ago
I think all poachers should be shot on sight. They are nothing but human vermin and need to be exterminated.
Dustin Morgan 7 years ago
The people know the risk. It's not like it's a secret. The numbers would be opposite if they didn't kill people. Rhinos would be dead. If people want to risk their lives to kill helpless animals for a few thousand bucks, shoot them down. I don't want anyone dying, human or rhino, but if this works, good.
Katy Fix-Santana 7 years ago
Humans are the reason the rhinos are gone! So logic says, eliminate the humans that kill the rhinos. Simple.
Chris Jonsson 7 years ago
People who kill Rhinos for personal gain, those who traffic their horns, those who falsely promote Rhino parts as medicinal powers, and those who buy the end products from Rhinos' lives, deserve to get what they dealt their victims.
Grim Reaper NZ 7 years ago
there is no such thing as innocent people if they are poachers, i support the shoot on sight that this park has
Lori Dennis 7 years ago
I'm glad these people care about their animals. Poaching needs to stop!!!!!
Virginia Anziani 7 years ago
It's not too far. It's hard to hear, and I'm not advocating shooting people just "because." But this gets the word out that the poaching will not be tolerated. THAT's what it's come to. Something must be done to save the rhinos and other animals. The poachers are willing to do it for the money---perhaps they'll decide now the price is too high.
Michele Salzberg 7 years ago
The Rhino's are living their lives in peace, they are not attacking anyone, they are not seeking anyone out, heck they are not playing hide and seek teasing the poachers. So yes, the guards are doing their job, guarding the rhino's in their care, good for them, praise even for them.
Cathy McGeary 7 years ago
I think this is awesome and wish more National Parks would implement a similar practice. Remember that zoo in France not too long ago, where one of their rhinos was shot and killed and it's horn sawed off? Pity they didn't have a couple of these park guards on hand. If you're walking into a national reserve park where animals are protected and you're carrying a gun ... I'd shoot you first and ask questions later. Or maybe just skip the questions and double tap you.
Jim Ouchida 7 years ago
There's not a lot of innocent people running around the jungle with it poison spear or rifle come on who are you fooling those people are killing innocent animals quit being a pussy
Alan Lowry 7 years ago
This is NOT WRONG! Humans have the brain and know the consequences. Therefore, you play ... you pay. I for one am very glad to see the senseless, superstitious killings of animals (not for food) is being dealt with in such a forthright and hard line manner. I say Good for You Kaziranga National Park! Your Park.... Your Rules !
Bruce Locke 7 years ago
Shoot them all. And while you're at it, shoot those pencil dicked Chinese men that are driving the market for rhino horn and elephant tusk. We all know that's why these animals are being slaughtered.
William Macdonald 7 years ago
It is absolutely about time that we start protecting our endangered species. I commend the Kaziranga National Park for their commitment and dedication to keeping these animals safe and protected. As far as the sub-human poachers go, they know well beforehand that these Rhinos are protected and if they chose to break the law and attempt to murder these majestic animals than they get what they deserve.
Anna Malinowski 7 years ago
Are things gone too far? Definitely not. 50 subhumans out of a population of over 7,5 billion is a god deal to save these magnificent animals. Let's hope this solution will be implemented other places as well.
Becky Bauer 7 years ago
I do not find shooting poachers or suspected poachers on sight as terrible, particularly since terrorists groups such as Boko Haram, ISIS, etc. fund their activities through poaching. Poaching has become a war...a war to save many species as well as human lives. The good guys won't win by playing nice. One doesn't take a slingshot to a fire fight. Very often, particularly in Africa, poachers have more advanced weapons and better transportation than official game rangers, so I have no problem with shooting first in this case. And since word is out that being shot is what can happen, I doubt innocent locals go wandering about the rhino preserve.
Brenda Carman 7 years ago
Poachers don't care how many rhinos are killed so shooting the poachers seems fair to me they know the risk .
Joanne Paoli Bayne 7 years ago
I think it's fine. You know it's illegal, if you're stupid enough to go in a National Park after an endangered species, you get what you deserve.
Kay Martin 7 years ago
Killing is too good for these insensitive greedy bastards. They should be de-horned as well....
Carole Martine 7 years ago
Sounds good to me. Poaching is illegal and inhumane. Poachers deserve what they get.
Sheena Greaves 7 years ago
they where going ti kill an innocent animal for its tusks or horn .. so as far as I'm concerned kill all poachers
Sheena Greaves 7 years ago
they kill innocent animals for their horns and tusks ... so as far as I'm concerned kill all poachers
Bryan Elliott 7 years ago
"Gone too far", my a*s. If there are still poachers showing up, they've not gone far enough. "Innocent people", my a*s. You don't show up on national park land with a rifle just to observe.
Bryan Elliott 7 years ago
Also - and I know this from poachers in the Congo - the rangers are as likely to be gunned down for being in the way as the Rhinos are to be killed for their horns. So call it self- and animal-defense.
Load More Replies... Bryan Elliott 7 years ago
Zero. You're not on a national park with a weapon to observe. Gone too far, my a*s.
Vic Cherikoff 7 years ago
Maybe we should also allow the idiots with small penises to be shot when they try to buy rhino horn. We need to clean up the shallow end of the gene pool.
Mike McCullough 7 years ago
Are you nuts? These is the best thing I've heard to control poachers! You should have to get a permit though :0
Shan Kissdani 7 years ago
If you saw how the poachers kill wild animals for their body parts and cut those parts out slowly even as the animal lay dying in pain, you would want to skin the poachers alive, not just shoot them dead.
Debby Morris 7 years ago
Take every last poacher out. Please do. Poachers are scum and should be shot. Repeatedly.
Kayla Levine 7 years ago
If the number of people killed is greater than the number of rhinos killed I guess the rangers must be doing a good job.
Vic Cherikoff 7 years ago
This should be the norm. I fully condone shooting idiot poachers and the Government officials that allow them to exist.
Tala Chedaka 7 years ago
There may have been more people killed than Rhinos, but how many Rhinos would these people have killed? They mention how many innocent people have been killed, but what about the innocent Rhinos?
Matthew Stevens 7 years ago
If you are holding a gun on a National Park reserve, you get what you deserve!
Donnie Symes 7 years ago
Who cares about these idiots, I sure as hell don’t. It’s called DECISION making. People make a bad decision to kill animals which they know is illegal and they are SHOT. Now the same person makes the decision to NOT kill these animals and the person lives happily ever after and so does the animal, DAAAAAAAA it’s not rocket science. As far as I’m concerned 50 dead is a good start.
Cydney Massard 7 years ago
as someone that has always prefered the company of animals, I approve of this, let the punishing begin, now for America to protect wolves, but like my country is gonna do s**t
Kristin Mattson 7 years ago
I hope the author of this article can read this, youre a dumb b***h. Theyre not innocent, poaching is illegal and also they deserve to die for killing innocent rhinos.
Kristin Mattson 7 years ago
I hope the author of this article can see this. Youre a dumb b***h. Innocent people? Theyre not innocent, poaching is illegal and cruel. They deserve to die for killing innocent rhinos.
Lynn Kirby 7 years ago
Fully agree.. Why should a poacher's life be more important than the rhino!
Ariel Coker 7 years ago
Well you aren't exactly "innocent" if you are breaking and entering with intent to kill
Kaycie Zubowski 7 years ago
Oh, please with the namby pamby nonsense. There is ZERO reason for random people to be inside this park. Regular people are not allowed to roam it freely. The ONLY reason to sneak in is to poach, and "innocent people" go in with a guide and permission. If more parks operated this way it would end the problem of poaching.
Bridget Perrin 7 years ago
The park has clear signage warning people not approach and that you will be shot - in the protected areas. So I'm assuming if you're wandering on foot amongst the rhinos and the guards, in all likelihood carrying a weapon, then you're a poacher!!!! And yes. There are that many trying to get their hands on our rhinos - hundreds of these monsters. This reporter writing this article is the reason why our Rhinos will one day be extinct. Because any hard action like poisoning horns or shooting poachers is frowned upon and there's a backlash stopping progress to save this animal.
Scott Kenward-Miller 7 years ago
Good on them. More inncoent animals die every day than 'so called innocent poachers'.
dayv 7 years ago
I don't care if poachers die (let them that take the sword perish by the sword) but I fear this may never end until the root cause (poverty) is addressed. 6k may very well be enough to convince people to potentially throw their life away. I wish their economy could be strong enough to support regular jobs for would-be poachers.
Raymond Knoll 7 years ago
Personally, I really want to be a ranger in this park. Poachers be on alert, be prepared for the consequences of your crimes.
Alan Kingswood 7 years ago
F**k the poachers!!!!!!!!! How can you be on there side... What would you propose letting them off and letting them come back to try again.... Kill all the poachers!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Jason Van Camp 7 years ago
Innocent people don't carry guns to a protected reservation. Sounds like instant karma to me.
Ravan Damien 7 years ago
I don't think they've gone too far. I think other parks need to allow the same actions. All poachers should be shot.
Trina Hill 7 years ago
Not a single one of those f*cking poachers were 'innocent', but the poor Rhinos are! So no, it hasn't gone too far!! They went in knowing the consequences.. they got what they deserved. I hope they keep up the good work. Maybe other places will follow their example.
Perla Aguilera 7 years ago
"Innocent people"?? Oh, god---that's disgusting! If the people that get away with the mass murder of entire species for personal profit are 'innocent', then so are those rangers. In fact, they're not just innocent under that logic; they're freaking HEROES doing whatever is necessary to protect innocent life that can't protect itself. The Creator of Life itself would revere those guys.
Bill Fikes Jr 7 years ago
They should spare a few just long enough to get them to tell who they are selling the horn to, then go kill him too.
Nathan Fisher 7 years ago
Completely not too far. Go for it. If this is what it takes to keep the animals from dying out, I am all for it. There's plenty enough humans on this planet anyway.
Steve Jakobs 7 years ago
Actually, I don't think they go far enough..I think the poachers entire families should be killed to send a very harsh message to future poachers...
Steve Yakoban 7 years ago
HOORAY!!! Happy to fund your bullets. So they kill even 500 or 5000 humans that are garbage destroying this world. SO?
Kim Hessel 7 years ago
Hmm, let innocent Rhinos be killed, or kill murderous humans in defense of those who cannot defend themselves? Kill the murders, I say. Because let's call poachers what they are - killers.
Kelly Starrk 7 years ago
Nobody cares if you kill a poacher Also...decent humans won't be sitting alongside a shooting poacher, so just cause you didn't pull a trigger doesn't make you guilty
Bill Petreszyn 7 years ago
Sounds like they need to hire more Rangers and more parks should adopt this Policy!
Rachel Black 7 years ago
Innocent people? No person is ever innocent. Furthermore a person would have NO reason to be out there unless they were planning on hunting those poor animals. I am all in support of them being shot before they can kill the rhinos. Maybe it will keep the poachers in check. I think they need more of this kind of justice, because lets face it, the law is corrupt and cannot protect these animals.
Sean Tyler 7 years ago
It is entirely justified. Rhinos are critically endangered. People, not so much.
Allison Hanson 7 years ago
Could I join? Innocence does not include intention of taking another life.. that's evil.
Marium Nizami 7 years ago
I have dogs and if someone tries to hurt my babies, that's how far I can go.. Why do humans get the right to kill everything that's not human??? If they wanted to learn a lesson, they would've stopped trying to kill the rhinos when the park authorities shot the first few poachers..
Rahul Sharma 7 years ago
Oh, those animals are/were not innocent too. Well Innocent people won't found themselves killing Rhinos.
Gabby Pantaloni 7 years ago
Okay, it's one thing to ask if this is morally okay, but did you seriously refer to poachers as "innocent people"? I won't talk about the morality involved in this conservation effort, but to call those poachers "innocent" is a slap in the face to the thousands upon thousands of lost rhino and elephant lives. They are not innocent. They are criminals that deserve punishment. Should that punishment be death? I can't say. But they are far from "innocent."
Elena Alexandra Cojocaru 7 years ago
"And how many innocent people were killed?" -none, because they were guilty of attempted poaching.
Ronda Dalton 7 years ago
The question was: Has the park gone to far by shooting and killing poachers (humans)? The answer is: NO they haven't. I believe that this may be the only way we have a chance to save these and other endangered species. We've read that poachers have even broken into zoo in other countries and have killed rhinos for their horns. You better believe that they are also killing anyone that gets in their way. Until we can find a way to stop the demand for this then I have no qualms with these scumbags being shot on sight. They have no problem taking other lives then we should have no problem taking theirs. I also firmly believe that anyone that solicits any part of an endangered animal they get a minimum of 100 years in jail and forfeit any and all financial possessions. That any future monies they may earn go directly to helping save other endangered species. If they have no money and are kept in poverty then there won't be any incentive for poachers to go kill these endangered animals.
Aly Bee 7 years ago
Poachers do illegal things knowingly. It's most definitely NOT too far to take appropriate action. If approved and appropriate actions are taken and it results in the death of a poacher, whose fault is that? If you're trying to insinuate that human life is paramount to biodiversity, PLEASE take an ecology course or just generally update yourself on the importance of ecosystems.
Cindy Cowan 7 years ago
Killing poachers works for me. These animals need to be protected. I don't have a single problem with it.
Aja Baliker 7 years ago
Keep on shooting. I applaud them for killing poachers. Why is a rhinos life worth any less than the scum that is hunting them?
Lucia Villa 7 years ago
I totally agree with this! If we "think" we have the right to kill a defenseless animal then, we might as well treat those people like animals themselves. I'm sure the park rules are WELL KNOWN.... people go and try to kill them at their own risk. Well too bad!
D name 7 years ago
National park’s workers can kill a POACHER and get away with impunity in the same way you don't get arrested for cleaning s**t off a toilet. Is the author so ignorant as to value the life of human scum that is threatening an endangered species? I am overjoyed to hear there are some people willing to stand up and protect mother nature from the cancer that humanity has become.
Sam Camenetti 7 years ago
Since poachers want to cut off these majestic animals horn, maybe they should catch these poachers and cut off there arms.
Carole Menninger 7 years ago
No sympathy at all for these "innocent" people killed! They knew the risks. How about more sympathy for a species who because of poaching, trophy hunting is now listed as endangered? ALL my sympathy goes toward this animal. Period!
Carole Menninger 7 years ago
Those killed knew the risks. I do not have one OUNCE of sympathy for them. You keep asking about how many innocent people, well, buddy, how about asking "how many innocent rhinos have died"? Enough to make them endangered and close to extinction, THAT is how many.
Patricia Lyons 7 years ago
They are not going too far. I don't care if they are poaching rhinos or rabbits they are poachers and they're not doing it to get food to put on the table. They know the risks when they do it.
Ryan Harrison 7 years ago
I say good job on killing the poachers keep it up and try to not have any innocent casualties all we can hope for the cost is justified for the survival of the rhinos
Bridget Pitt 7 years ago
The rhinos in Africa are desperately threatened. Maybe this is necessary to stop poaching, but more should also be done to those who are trafficking in rhino horn
Pamela Smith 7 years ago
Must everyone carry a rifle? They wouldn't be mistaken for a poacher then.
Michael Ki 7 years ago
You're naive if you believe that any of those 50 killed were not poachers.
Ian LukeMitchell 7 years ago
Another point to make on these poachers? They are not only poaching to steal tusks and horns for medicinal value. These animals are being butchered to satisfy rich people who want them on their walls as a status symbol.
Mary Russell 7 years ago
kill all those human that try to kill such beautiful creatures , they deserve it if they come looking to take only the horns. I am happy to know that so many rhinos are being so well protected . to all you humans with bleeding hearts for those poachers killed. remember this they are bad evil people and they have this coming and they will burn for their sins.
Matt Garretson-Pugh 7 years ago
Too far? Absolutely not. This is 100% what needs to happen. Murder the murderers.
Jeremy Mutz 7 years ago
This isn't too far. Don't poach. "They need to feed their family ". So does everyone else, so pick something else. Kill more poachers.
Kristiana Nelson 7 years ago
If there are still people who think their erections are more important than rhinos, then this method has not gone too far. The rhino horn isn't a miracle cure for anything. It's value as such is evidence of human stupidity and greed.
Jamie Mayfield 7 years ago
How can it be justified? Easy, there are over 7 billion humans in the world, and there are only around 3,300 of them. We can stand to lose a few horrible humans for the sake of an entire species. Why do so many think that human lives are so damn precious? We are everywhere and we multiply like f*****g rabbits, I have no problem with a few of us being shot for being a******s.
Debbie Current 7 years ago
I have no problem with them shooting poachers. There is an easy way to be safe. Stay off the land and leave the rhinos alone. They should do this more often.
moti kadosh 7 years ago
Are you f*****g stupid? People try to kill anaimls are not innocent in any way. F**k all the poachers. Hope they rot in hall and every one of them kill the sooner the better
Wo Wen Tan 7 years ago
Pretty sample no buyer no killer. If people still buy it. No matter how hard you try you can't stop the killing.
Cyndi Hill 7 years ago
There is NO doubt in my mind... if I was a caretaker of those rhinos and someone, anyone, tried to harm them... I'd shoot them dead in a heartbeat.
Cyndi Hill 7 years ago
There is NO doubt in my mind... If I was taking care of and protecting those rhinos and someone, anyone, tried to harm them... I would shoot them dead without hesitation.
Karen Homan 7 years ago
Because in Africa things like this http://www.timeslive.co.za/local/2017/02/22/Staff-assaulted-and-rhino-slaughtered-in-brutal-animal-orphanage-attack1 happens - poachers deserve everything bad that could ever happen to them
Sankalp Sthanapati 7 years ago
Excellent work by the government I would say. When these so called innocent people go inside a protected area with guns and even after given a warning to comply don't listen they deserve to be killed. We have destroyed our nature a lot. About time we take drastic steps.
Alexander Pintor 7 years ago
Absolutely f**k em! They think killing an animal for game is worth money. Then have em eat a d**k!
Vikrant Singh 7 years ago
Absolutely perfect, finally an article with some marbles in it. I hope this is the beginning.We humans deserve it, the worst of all species.
Nicholas Hesser 7 years ago
Did they try at least using their brains to find a logical solution instead of just killing them? you know you can arrest people right? you don't have to jump straight to murder.
Leke Sokoli 7 years ago
P.s. and as for the fact that more humans died from this than rhinos being hunted IS SO F*****G STUPID TO BRING UP. NO S**T. IF I'M KILLING THE KILLERS THERE WONT BE ANY MORE MURDERS YOU F*****G EMPTY HEADED ENTITLED "online reporters/online article writer/online journalists" F***S.
Leke Sokoli 7 years ago
Case dismissed. F**k journalism, f**k these b******t individually opinionated articles. Give me news, real and straight to the point news. That's the point of reporting. I didn't come to read your opinion.
Leke Sokoli 7 years ago
Now i don't wanna hear any b******t like "but what if the rhino tried to kill someone waaawaaa" that means the lawfully protected human has the right to defend oneself or a good fellow human/rhino can help them out.
Norman van Druten 7 years ago
Not sure if this is the same conservation place, this picture was very moving and i take my hat off to these people who do this! Rhino-Orph...15b50a.jpg 
Hemant Kawale 7 years ago
The first picture seems to be of an African Rhino not the Single horned Rhinos found in the Kaziranga park.
Koko Sempai 7 years ago
I'm sure this is really hard for the staff members to do this but I also think it's the right thing to do.
Thalia Perez 7 years ago
How does one respond to this? Idk I feel like how else can you stop poachers? They don't care if an animal is endangered they kill so if they are willing to kill for profit they why not kill to protect another life? Question is why don't other parks do it like for th elephants and lions, etc..
Florian Joly-Sinclair 7 years ago
Too far ?! Really ? Hahahah, keep going. Never stop shooting poachers. I hope to join in someday.
Thee DivaDangerous 7 years ago
Not too far. Poachers are the lowest scumbags on the planet. If making poaching a capital crime is what it takes, so be it.
Gail Nolten 7 years ago
In my book lucky to be just dead, they deserve a more lingering brutal a suffering before being killer!!! Keep up the good work, whatever it takes to save these amazing animals.
Corinne McLuckie 7 years ago
When they put up the numbers of people killed they should put it up with the percentage of theverything whole world's population that equals to, then do the same for rhinos. 50 people really doesn't seem like too many to me.
Edward Smith 7 years ago
Instant justice, you shoot the rhino I shoot you! Now you know the risk!
Tyler Wenning 7 years ago
Hell no isn't too far. I just hope this story is real and they're actually killing poachers. Theyre not innocent people they deserve to be killed
Karenza T. Wall 7 years ago
i think that the death sentence for murderers of innocent beings is eminently just. now we need to decide what to do with the peoplke who use these murdered creatures for selfish and greedy purposes. i think this approach needs to be taken with murderers of tigers, orangutan and other endangered creatures. and then we could go on to sentence the corporations who destroy habitat for greed, and contribute to declining habitat for plants and creatures. even more important is education programs for all humans living so we can understand the corruption of the system that contributes to these extinctions. the best reason for this approach is the rise in rhinoceros populations in the park.
Michael Yonts 7 years ago
They get shot because they are carrying machine guns while 'harvesting' the horns off of poached animals (rather than going to jail). If your a poacher and don't want to get shot, choose a different profession.
Leotard Love 7 years ago
Other National Parks, around the world, should observe this example, and follow. Poachers are just POS who deserve to die!
Rebecca Palmer 7 years ago
If someone were to catch a poacher in the act of killing a rhino for its horn, do you really think he would let you live? There is a lot at stake for them. If they got caught, they don't get their horn. They don't get the money for that horn. They get imprisoned, and possibly even killed for their crime. And that was before the ones protecting the rhinos could just shoot them for it.
Karen Coleman 7 years ago
I don't think they have taken it too far. If your just out looking no need to carry a gun that will kill a rhino or elephant only way to stop poachers is to kill is caught with a gun
Licenciada Sifuentes 7 years ago
Sorry to say this but fair warning. If they know they can be killed and still try to do it its on them really.
Kirsty whitby 7 years ago
I think every national park in which ever country should have the right to shoot poachers (men or woman). it's not to far at all, people go and shoot beautiful, innocent and some nearly extinct animals just for fun and it's disgusting. Most are killed just so the poachers can take a picture with their kill and other are killed for their skin or horns (not for their meat) so yes, if you go poaching, the national park guards should have the right to protect the animals......
William Wetmore 7 years ago
To me it is justifiable. these majestic animals are gravely threatened and to save their species mortal forc must be used for 2 reasons it protects the animals and sends a message to the other horn poachers to lay off.
William Wetmore 7 years ago
this is justifiable do not judge other people by your standards to save the rhinos lethal force must be used
Colttan Beasley 7 years ago
Shouldn't be poaching then. Poaching to feed your family and poaching for greed are completely different. If they get caught, they're only going to do it again and be smart enough to not get caught again. If you have so little value for life that you want to murder any living thing just to butcher it for a couple parts, then you put yourself to face whatever consequences follow.
Raul Noriega 7 years ago
this is awesome. they need more intense approaches like this to help save soo many of our endangered buddies. Congrats to them for making this decision. they want to kill the rhinos so we kill you what a great trade :)
Lorenzo Kane 7 years ago
Seriously? Too far? You know what I'm sorry. I'm just going to say it... This world becoming INFESTED with mentally weak people. You can call it compassion...whatever good willed word you want to choose to justify it...but you're just being weak. Not that compassion is weakness...but when it gets in the way of the greater good... Complex problems have complex solutions. And some times to get what you want...you have to get your hands dirty. You can have all the good intentions in the world...but evil doesn't play by your rules. Dirty problems don't have clean solutions. So what do you prefer? Rhino extinction? Or save the life of evil men...and POSSIBLY a dumb few who ventured into park grounds KNOWING they've killed 50 people? To the author...get over yourself...or go there and help.
Candace Macedo 7 years ago
You shouldn't put yourself in a questionable position... I approve of this approach! A human life that doesn't care for animals doesn't deserve to be "respected" enough to be given a trail!
Dustin Aliano 7 years ago
Hell yeah! Shoot em...bury em and they can finally be useful to our environment by providing the plants with nutrients. We need to go so far past this that no amount of money will make someone even think about poaching...then we need to gather all the horns and ivory that have been poached to be used as bait for those trying to buy it so we can arrest them or kill them too
Sarmite Kraukle 7 years ago
It is great to know, that somewhere people care for animals. Poachers know, what they can expect, so they are risking on they own will. Two kind of people should be killed without remorse - child abusers and animal abusers.
Carlos de vera 7 years ago
compared to rhinos population humans are much bigger, killing a few won't tip the balance of the scale.
Rita Henson 7 years ago
When the innocent were killed, did they have cameras or rifles in their hands?
Bobby Albee 7 years ago
Elizabeth, if the killing bothers you then don't hunt rhinos. Your sympathy for poachers sickens me. Maybe you should find another job.
Attiya Charrington 7 years ago
I am pretty sure you aren't allowed to be considered an "innocent person" when you trying to kill an already endangered species..
Kenneth Housden 7 years ago
I'm Ok with this in fact I think it's brilliant that they are taking real steps keep Rhinos from becoming trophies or ground into Asian Viagra..
Ariel Edwards 7 years ago
I don't know bout all over the U.S but I know where I live it is legal to shoot someone trespassing as long as they are given warning (Ex: Signs) these poachers are trespassing I have no sympathy.
Michelle Bruce 7 years ago
Humans know right from wrong. Killing innocent animals for profit/greed isn't right. I think this park is fabulous for doing what it takes to save the species for future generations to hopefully enjoy. This isn't too far; poaching in a park/sanctuary is too far!
Jamie Merchant 7 years ago
too far... psh its not to far poachers dont deserve to live they are past being human they have turned into greedy animals kudos to this park
Patricia Soderstrom 7 years ago
Yes they should be shot! They know that the guards have the ok to shoot to kill. Maybe someday we will have poacher hunting.
Jessica Holden-Cook 7 years ago
110% Justified. If they get shot murdering and animal just for its horn then I would call that KARMA!!
Joy Bohannon 7 years ago
Add to the list the sick Dolphin, Whale, Seal and Elephant killers and I'm in, I wouldn't have a problem coming to help out if needed.
Andrea Sperling 7 years ago
Not so innocent if they're murdering innocent animals. (Hope this story is true.)
Gibran Leon 7 years ago
Then leave the damn Rhinos alone. It's not that difficult to understand. If you come in armed to a store, don't be surprised if you are shot at or killed. If you go out and look to KILL something else to steal their property, then well......
Eldar Eddy 7 years ago
People are not innocent. Children are. But child won't go into hunt for any animal, stupid people will so they deserve to be killed to save animals. Kill as many you like 7 billion people on this Earth and every day less and less animals and some species. So get rid of some amount of humans and animals will have more chances on this planet! Kill Ignorant Humans save lives! Hoooray! :)
Jen C 7 years ago
"The question is, could this kind of punishment ever be justified?And how many innocent people were killed?" They aren't innocent. They attempted to kill off an endangered species, one by one. Let's be clear, I'm not putting a single animal above a human life, I am putting an entire species is greater than one individual. May it be a collected group of individuals or an actual group of people with a common goal, I still believe an entire species is greater than them.
Linda Fundytus 7 years ago
They have not gone too far and I doubt if innocent people are being killed. They should have started this years ago. You cannot embark on a project like this and expect a positive result without sacrificing something-poachers in this case.
Vicki Adams 7 years ago
I'm ok with it. If someone comes in my house, and threatens my safety I can legally shoot to kill. Since rhinos don't have guns, someone needs to protect them. And to be honest, if I thought someone was going to, or had, harmed by dog or cat, they better be damn worried.
Akshara Khanduri 7 years ago
This is the best deterrent in many of the crimes that run rampant in our country. Proud of them for taking this step. STOP with the negative publicity
Dylon Bland-Rotchford 7 years ago
These poachers understand the risk that they are taking. If they get caught, and I hope they do, they deserve to be shot.
Sameer Chakraborthy 7 years ago
WTF, so terrorists in Kashmir are being hit by pellets and water but poachers are being shot dead? This is ridiculous. Effective protection of the rhinos needn't have to involve shooting people. Protect the park, erect electric fences and guard the park stringently, but shooting people is uncalled for.
Alok Tiwari 7 years ago
The article should also talk about how many people, including national park guards, that poachers have killed. Poaching gangs in Kaziranga are heavily armed and dangerous. They wouldn't bat an eyelid before mowing down park rangers. This aggreesive approach is only one that works there..
Steve Jakobs 7 years ago
Innocent people?? Surely you jest? They are attempting murder on an innocent...They parkers are doing what they have to do to protect them....I love this...I wish this happened everywhere.
Maria Nineonine 7 years ago
Wait innocent people? They are poachers how are they innocent? They are killing endangered animals for money and are doing it legally...f**k them
Becky Soto 7 years ago
I think sympathy for the poachers runs a little thin in this crowd. I stand with the park on this one. Really, how many 'innocent' people are just wandering around the bush close to Rhino herds with guns and machetes? When the rangers take down a kid that is minding his own business eating skittles, then it's time to worry. I am assuming of course that these shootings and evidence are reviewed by some sort of oversight committee? No real details about the whole process were given.
Michael Garcia 7 years ago
Keep up the good work and put their heads on a mounted plack especially the a*s hole who wrote this post!
Carla Villanueva 7 years ago
How are they called innoscent, when they are after killing these rhinos.
Damon Anstee 7 years ago
A post I submittedhas failed I said good f**k the poachers sadly for the socioeconomic unfortunate in africa ithat poach in this case the rhinoceros are more important to earth and biodiversity than they are its the few that ruin earth for the many eradecate the few who are criminals against earth and their own species and we can find earthtopia for all human beings to unstunt our evolutionary toxic hiccup and heal the world to make it a better place this is the real world war three so wake up all of the government's of the world prioritise and fight like ak life on earth depends on it because it most surely does
Jaili Nicolaou 7 years ago
OKAY BORED PANDA - YOU HAVE TAKEN THIS TOO FAR. ID SUGGEST YOU REMOVE THIS OPINIONATED PUBLICATION.
Susan Sado 7 years ago
Good for them. More of the same should be done . The word is out, keep your guns out of our park. Keep up the good work! !!!!
Damon Anstee 7 years ago
PS I haxe two suggestions for the protectors of the rhinoceros one is a pole like a power pole with a solar charging station and drone landing platform atop with infared secuity cameras with motion sensors for monitoring the station and its surround and a protective cage that opens for landings and departures and a battery swapper with enough batteries to last throughout the night even on bleak days for an advanced millitary grade drone that is bullet resistant and able to change between some colours to blend with its backgrounds or have different colors for different tasks that can either tranquilize shoot or track offenders then chip.and track all the rhinoceros to create a random 24 /7 /365 monitoring regime and as an added feature a 4 wheel drive remote amphibious vehichle that can be dropped by the drone for under canopy tracking etc number two we have rhinoceros at Australia Zoo so ive us a couple of hundred and I think thy will be safe here to safeguard and bolster their numbers
Damon Anstee 7 years ago
Bloody awesome theyhave my sympathy to a degree due to their reasons usually socioeconomic in natur some for greed but that is a number greater than one that has been saved we humans number in the billions and the rhinoceros are well on there way to zero
Les Stuart 7 years ago
B******t! Id rather see their arms and legs cut off and left on the plains to be eaten. They deserve the worst torture possible. If you seek to take another's life you should expect your own to be forfeit as well. Theyre not goig far enough. The poachers should be happy theyre only getting shot.
Probir Bosé 7 years ago
Frankly, its all good. We have over 1.252 billion people and only 2,290 rhinos left! You do the math!
Probir Bosé 7 years ago
WTF! Only 50??? Are they sleeping on the job?? There needs to be more accountability - delay promotions and/or forfeit annual increments every time the miss or only maim a poacher! My taxes should not be wasted on useless c**ts! ┌∩┐(◣_◢)┌∩┐Oh! btw, welcome to India! :D
Probir Bosé 7 years ago
WTF! Only 50??? Are they sleeping on the job?? There needs to be more accountability - delay promotions and/or forfeit annual increments every time the miss or only maim a poacher! My taxes should not be wasted on useless c**ts! ┌∩┐(◣_◢)┌∩┐
Johan Jansen 7 years ago
Who cares? Why do you even ask the Question of how many people were killed? I love the idea and it should be implemented world wide... just wish the people right down the list from poacher to consumer could suffer the same faith
Katinka Min 7 years ago
Clearly, Bored Panda is full of vegetarians. At least I hope all those commentators who scream 'Shoot the poachers' are vegetarian because otherwise they'd be the biggest hypocrites ever.
Hans J. Henckert 7 years ago
And the pest infection for the poaching exclusively rests in CHINA and secondly VIETNAM.
StripeyPants 7 years ago
Kill 'em all and let God sort them out. Humans are the most dangerous animal on the planet.
Melina Pothier 7 years ago
Way too far. Couldn't they injure the person? Do they have to kill them? Killing them means they have sealed their fate, perhaps the person could've changed at some point. People playing god and taking human lives is never ok.
Christa Martin 7 years ago
"Elizabeth" do you even live in India or Africa? Your article is poorly-written and littered with unqualified opinion. Bad form if you intend on being taken seriously.
Apple Arawik 7 years ago
Endangered species are protected, and the laws are in place for poachers, poachers dont just kill rhino's or whatever, they will kill anyone who tries to get in there way. Poachers, pirates theyre the same, motivated by money and greed, not survival. Opium and poppy plantations do the same, and the death count is probably equivalent to the world population.
Mary Daniels 7 years ago
Somebody has to protect these animals. They can't defend themselves against this. I don't think it's going too far either.
Elaine Elder 7 years ago
The dumb ones in this scenario are the idiots at the end of this stupid supply line. They want the horn of a rhino to cure their sex life. It's just keratin. So they are paying a fortune for hair that's stuck together.
Eloy Ramirez 7 years ago
Good I'm glad . Too many species have gone extinct and will never be brought back just because people are full of greed . I approve !
Lillith Pandora 7 years ago
This is exactly the right guy model for protecting endangered species. All poachers deserve to die
Shan Kissdani 7 years ago
I believe this kind of operation--poaching that is--is done by a syndicate. They hire poor locals who are desperate for money to do the poaching. The syndicate provides the guns and the locals risk their lives. It is always sad to see how rich syndicate bosses profit at the cost of the lives of the local people. The governments of the world must target the syndicates. They are the real beneficiary of all poaching, prostitution, gambling, robbery, and other organised crimes. These syndicates become so rich and powerful that they can but governments and start to run legit businesses with their blood money. We are supporting them even without knowing it.
Glen Burks 7 years ago
Hell yes! The Rhinos can defend themselves against bullets! Poachers know that the Wardens shoot to kill, their choice. If I were a young man I'd go to Africa in a minute to protect all the magnificent beast, that these low life prey on. I pray for the wardens, they get killed too!
Irene Walton 7 years ago
Love this post, glad they're doing this, but they need to go after the people that want the horns too somehow. I wish there was a way
Jessica Hepler 7 years ago
Honestly good riddance maby putting the fear of death into poachers is what is needed to finally make it stop
Alden Fouraker 7 years ago
I don't think it's too far at all. I think it's one of the few places in the world that is taking crimes against animals seriously and doing something to stop it. Good work!!!!
Lee Castro 7 years ago
Absolutely! I'm in favor of providing any country that wishes to protect Rhinos or any other species in these parks with Drone Capabilities!
Harrison Mortimer 7 years ago
I don't know what's worse, that poachers still exist or that this author sounds incredibly biased towards them. Why is the life of an endangered and innocent animal more valuable then that of a criminal scumbag whose species are over populated.
Phyl O Butoyi 7 years ago
Very justified, I think, rape, armed robbery, pedophilia and poaching should be automatic death sentences.
Clayton Anderson 7 years ago
Torn on this one. But finally come down on the side of Rhino's. There are billions of us on the planet. Maybe some 10,000 rhinos at best? Our gain has been their demise. I don't want to see people get killed, but we are the main contributors to this situation. We need to elevate our paradigm. Please, don't kill rhinos.
Eugene Kutsin 7 years ago
all sounds good ... except that the real animal killers are the people who buy it. the guy who wants the horns, will keep paying one poacher after another to get what he wants. and poor fellas wouldn't even bother themselves with question what's more valuable a rhino or his way out of poverty. the question is what is a fair price to outweigh danger of being killed. follow buyers. poachers and all the intermediates got to be used to bring buyers to justice
Luke Irey 7 years ago
Shut the hell up, you ignorant fool. There are 7.5 billion humans & we are slowly destroying everything that inhabits this planet. Saying that killing 50 poachers is "going to far" is so ridiculously ignorant to how many of these animals have been killed for 1 SMALL PART OF THEIR MASSIVE BODIES. If you agree with this clearly idiotic, uninformed author, you should really go attempt to poach one of these rhino's so you can understand just how passionate people are about trying to protect that which we have come so close to destroying. Poachers deserve to be shot, frankly it's a light punishment considering you can survive a bullet in a non-vital area.
Andre Erasmus 7 years ago
There ain't no such thing as 'innocent' (armed?) people wandering around in a game park.
Diane Peace 7 years ago
If that's what it takes to keep animals safe then so be it---I have NO problem with this---
Urfan Eddie 7 years ago
What alternative would you propose. Many national parks in other countries fail to protect their animals because the rules of engagement for enforcement are so restrictive that attempts to prevent poaching are more deadly for the officers than the poachers. Poaching gangs are organized crime, no different than drug cartels on this side of the world, and they are willing to use deadly force to protect their illegal business, so enforcement has no choice but to respond in kind.
Jordan Dubie 7 years ago
This is completely fine. Ive never been at ease with the loss of a human life, but this is completely acceptable. I approve even.
John Halverson 7 years ago
HAHAHA! They are never gonna get me! Hahaha! Because I am not going to poach the rhinos. Get it? Apparently the poachers didn't.
Darren Parsnips 7 years ago
All this story has made me do is want to become a warden there and shoot more poachers. I approve of summary execution without trial for these scum.
Adrian Smalley 7 years ago
Article says all the people shot were going after rhino horns then asks how many innocent people were shot?. Get it straight, do the research. As long as they aren't shooting people who visit the park (if they even alow tourists) then I don't think this is too far.
Keri Still 7 years ago
I totally am behind killing poachers. They don't deserve to live and breath if they are willing to take that right away from another. Shoot away. Those people are no loss to our world.
Inzane_sniper 7 years ago
Those poachers kill animals only for goods... Why killing a poacher would be "too far" ... This must send them the message!
Panos Alexakos 7 years ago
They are not "innocent" people. They are criminals that threaten a endangered life form. Wipe them out.
Shannon O'Hare 7 years ago
How can you say in one sentence that all of these people (those killed) were going after the rhino's horns, then question how many innocent folk were killed? If they were definately poachers going after the rhino's for their horns, then there were categorically no innocent people killed. I am a human being and I believe this is the correct course of action. Everything else has been tried with nil effect and these animals need actual protection.
Larisa Brenière-Levskaya 7 years ago
Très bien!!!! Il faut faire avec les "gens" (pour ils ne sont pas de gens mais des braconniers) la même chose ce qu'ils font avec des animaux. Je déteste leur impunité. Ils ne comprennent pas autrement. Ils tuent. On leur dit de ne pas le faire. Et ça continue. Je trouve si il faut les tuer pour qu'ils comprennent je soutiens complètement !!! De quels gens innocents vous parlez? Pourquoi les innocents seront tuer? Je pense pas d'être tuer là bas si je viens juste regarder la nature sans armes, sans danger. Ça me nerve votre protection des hommes. Ces hommes là ne pensent que à leurs têtes et leurs portefeuilles.
Jenny Pierson 7 years ago
I totally approve of this...steps must be taken to protect our wildlife
Ray Hartenstine 7 years ago
YES it IS Justified to protect such an endangered species ALL because of C**P Chinese idiot Nature Medicine is make these animals Endangered...! Poachers DO need to now that they are being hunted if they try to risk this kind of thing..!!!
Ja Bor 7 years ago
It's a biased and one sided story....One has to understand that the poachers outnumber and outgun the guards. Do you think the poachers just lay their arms when they see a guard. In Kaziranga the poachers come equipped with AK47 where as the guards have 0.303 rifles made in the 1930...manual reloading...by the time the guards fires a bullet....the poachers can empty his magazine. The guards are underpaid and are usually the only source of earning for the family...he too deserves to defend himself. Period.
First Last 7 years ago
The question is, could this kind of punishment ever be justified? YES And how many innocent people were killed? ZERO
Paul Swabek 7 years ago
Kill any and all human life that threatens endangered species. All parks should allow this. If you go on owned property back in the 1500s in england and hunted foxes youd be killed, so why not this. Keep it up park. Infact go further. Let all parks holding endangrred species do this. Id even allow them to keep the deaths of poachers off record.
Syazwi Syahmi 7 years ago
The poachers are the animals. I see no problem eliminating them for their own selfish desires. I really don't feel anything for people like those anyway.
Dustin Cubit 7 years ago
Elizabeth needs to get a clue. No body should care about poachers. They kill people too.
Fabio Olmos 7 years ago
Compare 50 people as a % of the local human population with the number of poached rhinos as a % of the world's population
Colin Michael 7 years ago
When there is a war there will always be civilian casualties. Part of life so I approve of this anti poaching method.
Jonathon Sherwood 7 years ago
Lol the author keeps writing "but" and "however" like it's a bad thing. Play stupid games win stupid prizes
Yael Choleva 7 years ago
Either humans kill entire species or some humans (bad humans) are killed to save said species. So hard to choose. Innocent rhinos or rhino-killers? So hard. In the end we will all die and those who harm others need to be removed - one way or another (poachers will only stop if they are stopped by others, killing them for continuously murdering rhinos is the only incentive: get killed doing something awful or stop. That's as far as that goes.)
Shannon Kinard 7 years ago
It is a story of success BECAUSE they kill poachers, not "but they kill..." The question at the end is dumb about "how many innocent people were killed?" Who says that any were innocent? You're making it sound like a bunch of pedestrians and children were walking around throwing rose petals on what happened to be protected lands next to endangered rhinos. Or like a lost child happened to walk within 100 feet of a rhino and got shot. These are people that have invaded onto an area they have no business being near in the first place. Those protecting the park are just that... ON THE PARK. People who shouldn't be on the Park are just that... NOT SUPPOSED TO BE THERE. They put themselves in harms way. So let me pose the question to you- Why do you think any of the people shot by park protectors were innocent? Is there any data to indicate that any of the poachers were "innocent poachers," or that any person shot was there in the 1st place with an intention other than poaching?
Brendan Curtis 7 years ago
These poachers are trespassing, and carrying weapons onto private property. Park Guards are well within rights to shoot. Even if this was in the USA, this would still be legal, even if there were no Rhinos Involved. The poachers know they are committing a crime, and know they risk being shot. So they do it anyway, and get shot. Fair's fair.
Kevin Sweeney 7 years ago
At the beginning of the 20th century there were 500,000 rhinos across Africa. Now there are roughly 30000 of all species in all the world. So this article says that park rangers have killed hundreds of thousands of people. Personally I abhor violence. But the talking has not worked. The begging has not worked, Writing, and even enforcing, new laws have not worked. So where are we to go next? Time to take it to the poachers on the terms they have chosen. And just generally everybody stay away from the damn Rhinos
Alex Kedian 7 years ago
Are you serious, poachers being killed for hunting an endangered species is seen as action taken "too far"?. The fact that Rhinos are killed, is a testament to humans going "too far" for greed and participating in an archaic trade. Drastic times call for drastic measures
Jacques Rossouw 7 years ago
If you are in the Park the rule is Don't Get Out your Car! If you are in the park on foot without a registered gide with a rifle, you are a poacher??? What els???? Rules are rules and if the sine says Poachers will be shot Dead 💀 don't be a poacher please!
Raju Sesharaj 7 years ago
This post is lame. If there is a bank and if you try to steal it you get shot. This is similar these animals are endangered they are supposed to be protected and when you see poachers with big guns trying to kill animals are you going to debate with them?
Jonathan Farr 7 years ago
They are mostly marketed as a miracle cure for everything from cancer to erectile dysfunction Small penis syndrome
Marlin King 7 years ago
we need more action like this to many animals have went extinct just in my lifetime
Chandranshu Tiwari 7 years ago
Dear writer, If you think killing poachers is a step too far remember the fact that the forest guards also depend on the rhinos for their livelihood. where kill a rhino would fulfill poacher's needs for once, the animal's survival would ensure the long term sustenance of the forest guards.
Steven Verwichte 7 years ago
kill more poachers, pull their teeth out before they give their last breath!! should of done this years ago!!!
Paul Cameron 7 years ago
The rhinos have no choice when looking down the barrels of guns why should the poachers. NO THIS DIDN'T GO TO FAR. It would be one thing if a native tribe was shooting it for food for the tribe and using all parts in honor of the rhino. And yes there are other options for food, but you get my point.
Rahul Natekar 7 years ago
The whole idea behind this approach is that, maybe the animal doesn't know when it might be killed, but a human who has been forewarned about the consequence, and even after knowing what can happen , if the human goes ahead with his action, the human himself has justified the consequence of getting shot at.
Robert Molendyk 7 years ago
They add "50 poachers killed so far" like it's a bad thing. If you are willing to risk the extinction of a species I think the world is better without you anyways. Bravo and keep up the good work!
Heather Fey 7 years ago
this article is stupidly biased. "could this punishment ever be justified?" Humans are the largest parasitic species on this planet....obviously if we are having to kill our own kind to protect another, the stance shouldn't be, "this has gone too far," it should be, "thank god some of us have finally pulled our heads out of our asses and are working towards eliminating the psychopathic and parasitic tendencies that our cultures have created in harm towards the animal kingdom." I expect better from you, Bored Panda. Get your s**t together.
Giorgi Sabashvili 7 years ago
amount of stupid here in the comments are astounding... can you imagine how many people were killed who were innocent and just looked like they were poaching? overpopulation isnt a reason to advocate human killing. i understand that extreme measurements are to be taken in order to save endangered species, but at least aknowledge the sacrifices.. not all people are in fault of rhino endangerment
Thorsten Soll 7 years ago
where is the problem? Stop poaching endangered animals, stop buying or selling rhino horn or ivory...no one gets hurt or killed. end of the story.
pearl dsouza 7 years ago
I live in India and this is actually not acceptable, here many innocent people have been caught and declared as terrorists. People hold a lot of personal grudges or fake their achievements so that they are eligible for a higher salary and status. This is not the right thing to do.
Shamik Ghosh 7 years ago
This is a very bad article. It wrongly brings up the issue of human rights. If you know the state of affairs of most of India's forests, how they are being destroyed everyday then you will know that something needs to be done. Also, Kaziranga is in a state where there are lots of issues, insurgency, ethnic conflict, militancy and Kaziranga, unlike other Indian Forests, doesn't allow people to venture into it, its prohibited.So this idea of "shooting poachers going too far" is ill conceived.
David Mullbock 7 years ago
Lots of pro-shooting folks here. I would have expected a lot of namby pamby enlighten types. I agree with you. Compared to these animals, the poachers are expendable. Still, when you vote, do you vote for people who want to outlaw the death penalty? If so, it seems inconsistent.
Martinez Rodriguez 7 years ago
100% worth the punishment! We should only eat a select few species that we farm, killing any other animal or cutting down protected forest should be punishable by death! To many people think that this generation is all that matters because it's the one that they have lived in. Wrong this ball of rock has got to last humanity until it becomes an interstellar community, so being forced to consider our actions for the good of the future, is always a good thing. No matter how brutal.
Mario Chef 7 years ago
really? " How many innocent people were killed?" I thought they were poachers! If so GOOD ! How's a rihno suposse to defend itslef in front of a bullet?
Gerhard Wolleter 7 years ago
The question is, could this kind of punishment ever be justified?
Gerhard Wolleter 7 years ago
The question is, could this kind of punishment ever be justified?...YES, KILL THEM ALL.
Linda Lee-Brown 7 years ago
I'm not sure what to think. I know if it was me I would certainly stay the hell away from the park and not try shooting and hacking the horns off the rhinos. I have a feeling that a lot of very brave park workers have been murdered by poachers over the years at various African parks trying to stop the poachers. So it could be self preservation as well as protection of innocent animals.
AnnieLaurie Burke 7 years ago
Is there any indication that "innocent" people were killed? How is this a "license to kill anyone" anymore than any other law-enforcement situation where someone can be injured or killed while they are committing a crime? Poachers are warned they are subject to law-enforcement action if they are committing crimes. Yes, shoot poachers on sight. Poachers armed with automatic weapons have come into preserves and killed wildlife AND rangers. And I am supposed to feel sorry for them? Sorry -- they get what they deserve. Kudos to Kaziranga!
Rick Rockwell 7 years ago
If that's what it takes... The bastards don't belong there. If you find one of them in your house - you can do the same thing. No difference.
Elise Zoli 7 years ago
Extraordinary measures are required against the multinational cartels, and to protect our patrimony. Gen. Ham, AFRICOM, recommended as much: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HGeq6njQfto
Robert Brinty 7 years ago
This is not far enough. Hung drawn and quartered the poachers! Civilians would not be in the area otherwise on a tour as tourists. Conservation areas are there for a reason. Kill the f*****s.
Joshua Royer 7 years ago
How is this 'going to far'? Clearly it works. 2400 safe rhinos. For the price of 50 dead a******s. I'm okay with this.
Victoria Pietsch 7 years ago
Ironically, when I was younger, my dream was to move to Africa and "poach the poachers." As crude as this may seem to most people (as the idea of killing other humans is rather harsh), there is the overall aspect that, ultimately, the short-term hope of preventing the loss of human life would be overridden by the long term imbalance of an entire ecosystem, should things grow more out of hand than they already are. I think that, despite the implications of killing other humans, this is ultimately a better solution than most other attempts. Most poachers will not listen to the law, and they surely must be stopped. And besides, maybe this will scare others to not do this kind of thing, thusly lowering the deaths on either side. Humans used to die all the time while hunting, so it seems reasonable for them to face similar risks when poaching for mere human greed.
Ron Ankney 7 years ago
Poachers are not an endangered species. In fact, they rank quite low on the scale that measures how "humane" a Human is and should be. My vote goes with protecting the Rhinos by whatever means necessary...including clubbing them to death, disemboweling them, shooting them, hanging them... etc. The world would be a much better place without them.
Tim Scott 7 years ago
This photo essay is photographing and documenting one topic and then pops the inane question at the end that contradicts the theme. Yes! It is okay to kill poachers. Maybe, as a middle ground, there should be an oversight committee to make sure that poacher-killers don't go beyond their mandate. But, the ends justify the means when it comes to the wholesale murder of fragile species.
Rob Gilbreth 7 years ago
When there are 7+ billion people in the world and only thousands or less of a few endangered species... I say....here's to 50 more poachers *cheers*
Hunter Francis 7 years ago
"innocent people" really? Someone clearly has a bias. This isn't too far at all, this species is endangered, and there are 7 billion people on earth. The poachers don't deserve life if they are going to take the life of something that is going to become extinct. And they know the boundaries in which you can be killed in, so stay away. Its that simple.
Krystal Kubiszewski 7 years ago
"And how many innocent people were killed?" The poachers are NOT innocent people. The rhino horn trade is illegal in India, yet these poachers will kill the rhinos to get their horns. They are criminals, and I do not feel remorse for them meeting such a fate.
Kayleigh Harter 7 years ago
Poachers are not "innocent people." They are greedy, violent thugs looking to get rich by killing endangered animals. They deserve whatever they get. I applaud the park for their zero - tolerance approach.
Devendra Kumar 7 years ago
This is not too far. They are criminals and it is very hard to stop them without doing this.
Shigure Tatsushige 7 years ago
Anyone that kills animals for fun or sports also should be killed, remember human=mammal=animal ... Human life is no higher then any other animal on this planet, we do not own the planet.
Bea Gyulay 7 years ago
Not too far at all. Innocent people wouldn't have been where they were going to be shot. The rangers know what they're doing. Too bad they couldn't have done this to save the black rhino which is now officially extinct. They managed to kill them all. So, again, NOT TOO FAR!!
Linda Hupp Motschiedler 7 years ago
As the article stated, all of these people were going after rhino horn therefore they were POACHERS and NOT INNOCENT PEOPLE. Innocent people do not go into a national park with a gun and approach an endangered species. I am sure the rangers or guards had good reason to kill these people and I support them! It is about time these countries got serious about confronting the poaching problem before all the animals are gone. Another point is that many of the rangers are killed by the poachers. These types of people have no value of life whether it is human or animal. That is an undisputed fact. The really unfortunate fact is that the poaching problem will never end until countries such as China ban the importation of these products for good. They can kill one small poacher but there are probably 100 more waiting to take his place bc of the poverty in these countries and the $$ they can make poaching.
Marilyn Slater 7 years ago
There is a superabundance of people, there is a dearth of Asian Rhinos. Those people who slaughter Rhino for their horns deserve to be shot... They know the risks.
Mark Gall 7 years ago
Sorry, but the author of this article seems to have little idea what she's talking about when giving her greatly misguided opinion about poachers. The poachers in some other areas have wiped out rhinos, as well as elephants, and this place would be next. The reason is several fold: 1) Local courts do NOT give deterring sentences for poaching in many places, and even in places that they do, the poacher leaves quietly through a back door later. Local authorities either are bribed (they too make very little money), or threatened. 2) When you have people living in the third world, wages (often $1,000 to $2,000 per YEAR), poachers can make many years wages in a very short time. 3) Park rangers in several areas that do NOT have a shoot on sight policy tend to get killed by poachers. Where do I get my information? I'm retired from NPS and BLM U.S. law enforcement, and arresting poachers in the U.S. was part of my job, and I knew overseas law enforcement.
chachkimooch 7 years ago
No way is this too far! Save the rhinos, KILL THE POACHERS!!! As far as I'm concerned, this should also happen for EVERY OTHER endangered species as well. Maybe then people will stop poaching!
Azure Adams 7 years ago
How can I get a job there? Also let's make this a practice that every animal preserve can do. Time to take out the most deadliest of animals
Jacqueline Aaronson-Glaab 7 years ago
I think the Rhinos won't mourn the poachers ... And neither will I
Violet Camicat 7 years ago
Too far? Well, let's have a look at the numbers. How many people have been killed to protect the rhinos? and how many rhinos have been killed by people? Or, maybe we could shift the perspective a little bit? How many rhinos are there on earth compared to how many people? It's a huge difference to each of the two populations, if a rhino or a man is being killed.
Damian Staron 7 years ago
Yes, every single person killed by the park guards deserve it. If you're guarding the rhinos chances are you are going to be marked for death too. I would love to guard endangered animals like this. I'll shoot first and ask questions later. The end.
Mckenzie Latham 7 years ago
Here's an idea if you in a national park with a gun or trap and you're not a park ranger...you're a hunter/poacher so it's open season on you... i don't see how innocent people can be killed if they're not threatening the animals. This is what's called protecting your national resources, if you can shoot someone for trespassing and or going on your property, you can shoot a poacher.
Diane Brand 7 years ago
Where did my comment go? Yes, they can let it be known that poachers will be killed and then KILL THEM. Animals are helpless, people have a choice. Rhinos would be extinct if such actions were not taken. Someone must respect & protect animals. If poachers know they will be killed, chances are they'll stay away. If not, they'll die.
Gee Filippi 7 years ago
'The question is, could this kind of punishment ever be justified? And how many innocent people were killed?' Peak Liberalism. Will you honestly condemn a species to extinction because some kind of half-baked Humanism? if you so you need to go take a long hard look at yourself. People like you are a real danger to this world.
Jenny Jozwiak 7 years ago
I think that is fantastic! As far as I know, humans are no where NEAR extinction! If they kill an endangered animal -- they deserve to die.
Sully Erna Nora 7 years ago
They are doing the right thing. Kill them before they start killing others. Otherwise how?? We need more people and places with the same mindset. The animals need to be protected from evil human.
Kary Paganini 7 years ago
I LOVE IT!!! Every animal abuser deserves to be tortured and killed! Every poacher deserves to be tortured and killed! Every trophy hunter that kills for sport, and not for food, deserves to be tortured and killed! Any person that, in any way, knowingly aids in the implementation of any of the above violations against animals deserves to be tortured and killed! Period, end of story!!!
Debbie Coulsey 7 years ago
I think it's about time! We have been watching animals get so close to being extinct and done nothing. While your a t it shoot those big game hunters who pay for the " right" to kill. We all know that $$ has gone in someones pockets and the poor animals have no idea they have been " picked" to be killed.
Mark Young II 7 years ago
I'm a hunter and a human and wholeheartedly support this process. There is a huge difference in a hunter and a poacher. Responsibly harvesting a sustainable animal is fine, but when you are trying to take out endangered species just to take their horns, you should get a bullet. Play stupid games, win stupid prizes.
Dianne Hayward 7 years ago
I applaud this action! Desperate times take desperate measures! We share this planet with many other species, yet we treat them with disdain and subject them to horrendous cruelty. If we don't want the planet to end up being nothing but a seething mass of violent and barbaric homo sapiens, then we must take extreme measures. What right do we as human beings have to cause the extinction of other God given species? None!
Felix Rojas 7 years ago
If it was a poacher... well deserved... if it was an innocent person... this world is too cruel for someone like that... better to end their suffering now!
Maggie Burlingham 7 years ago
Since the beginning of time, poaching has been subjected to death if caught. Even in the Wild West, one could steal a man's wife and get away with it but steal his horse and get hung.
Anthony Merlo 7 years ago
This article reads like it was written by a four year old. Rock on. Save the rhino, kill the poachers.
Gus Rozestraten 7 years ago
the life of a poacher isn't worth more than the life of a rhino. the hunter gets hunted, there's poetic justice in there somewhere.
Lawrence Kopp 7 years ago
All parks need to adopt the same level of protection, for the animals. Poachers enter rhe parks at their own risk.
Jim Meservie 7 years ago
I am all for killing poachers, all of the park should do the same. Get rid of the poachers whatever they can.
LeeAnn Young 7 years ago
Kill more poachers. Seems it is the poachers or the rhinos, elephants, giraffes, etc. Choose to save the animals. Humans are not going extinct. If you do not want to be mistaken for a poacher and shot, then don't act like poacher. Stay away from the animals.
Joan Perry 7 years ago
I agree with it. There isnt much else they can do to protect the animals over a large area. The pouchers know the risks and still try to kill them. I am human and I agree 100% with their policy.
Phyllis Fee 7 years ago
I personally support this method, it appears to be one of the most effective in protecting the rhinos from the monsters who would shoot them, cut their horns off and leave them to die slowly. And what's more funny about this? The article was made in attempt to bash this method yet it's only shined more light on it and gain more support for the rangers.
Sue Foster-collins 7 years ago
Yes it's right & should be the same wherever poaching for horns or tusks is a problem, it would soon stop happening.
Madeleine Feehan 7 years ago
Great move .. this should have been done years ago and this programme should be expanded to include all areas of wild life poaching.. No sympathy for the poachers .. they know the risks and die because of their choices .. unlike the poor animals.
Jane Wallace 7 years ago
How many innocent animals have to be killed before this type of thing has to be implemented? Stop killing the animals for greed and sport and perhaps they will stop killing poachers... This should be used in many more places... the killing of animals needs to stop... we are NOT god and should not decide which species survives and which doesn't!
Jane Wallace 7 years ago
How many innocent animals have to be killed before this type of thing is put into force. This is perfect and should be used in more places... stop killing animals for game and sport and then there will be no need to kill poachers.
Amber Jones 7 years ago
The only way the poaching is going to stop is if they start getting killed, nothing else gets through to them. If you kill an endangered animal or are making an attempt to kill an endangered animal you get killed! Simple as that
Gianna Aleman 7 years ago
Bravo to them! They should do this in all the parks. Poachers would start looking for a different vocation.
Rebecca Kathleen 7 years ago
They are not "innocent" if they are poaching an endangered species. I also agree that I'm fine with this approach. Post signs saying "poachers will be shot on sight" and it's fair warning.
Matej Novoselec 7 years ago
I agree with this approach. Many innocent people are killed daily by civilized world and everybody is okay with it since its in the name off democracy and freedom.
Nicky Casthavian 7 years ago
No, this is not too far. A******s were killed, not people. I do not consider these kind of soulless "people" as human beings. Just as rapists and murderers. Shoot them all down to the last one! Then the world will be a better place.
Dawn Elson 7 years ago
Absolutely the correct thing to do and should be done in every animal protection area -good going eventually the poachers should get the message
Lisa Chen 7 years ago
i approve this approach of killing poachers. Thousands of rhinos are killed every year for no good reason by poachers. They should know the risks going into conservation territory, hence they are asking for it, ofcourse the rhinos have no way of defending themselves against guns and so am glad humans have taken up the duty to protect them. instead of condemning this practice for killing poachers we should be celebrating the life of the rhinos saved.
Sally Vogel 7 years ago
The poachers knew what they were doing was wrong. Maybe there should be more of this kind of protection for endangered species. How about going after the destroyers of the environment in the same way? Frontier justice they used to call it.
Ara Telecaster 7 years ago
Poachers are BREAKING THE LAW and do so at their own risk by trespassing onto protected lands to slaughter these endangered animals. I would happily sign up to guard these rhinos and elephants and protect them by whatever means necessary.
Bethany Alice Cooney 7 years ago
I don't get why the article is acting like this is a bad thing, these people go out and kill an animal from a far, like a coward, purely for greed. If you are willing to kill another animal (yes we are animals) without reason or real need to then you yourself should be prepared to be killed in the process.
Aly Mathis 7 years ago
How many innocent people are out there with a gun to kill an endangered species? None. Not one single innocent person is along for the joy ride. I live in America and most definitely support this approach. Until the day comes when people learn to follow the rules and can respect animal life as much as human life, they can go on shooting poachers. They wouldn't be poachers if it were legal so just remember that.
Wilhelm Stuttgart 7 years ago
Humans are nowhere near extinct. We can spare a few. It's called "culling the herd." The weak, the lame, the diseased (poachers) should be harvested without remorse.
Eli Lonn 7 years ago
If poachers want to show their a*s by killing such beautiful creatures, then they should reap the consequence. Maybe then they will learn that a horn is not a miracle cure. They do not need them. They want them to satisfy the greed in their hearts. Well they will soon learn that greed does not exist in hell.
Chad Krisher 7 years ago
Looks good to me... I say if you're carrying a gun with the intent of killing something for profit and you get killed in the course, then who cares. It's the world that you have created for yourself. Live by the gun die by the gun?
David Sperry 7 years ago
No, it isn't too far. In fact, it isn't far enough. ALL of Africa should have this policy PERIOD. If poachers can't get a rhino under threat of death, maybe they'll even think twice about poaching ANY animal.
Mark Michalek 7 years ago
Keep shooting them. There are billions of people not so many rhinos.
Naomi Reynaldo 7 years ago
Yes I agree with this. Poachers know the risk they are taking when they go after one of these rinos so yes keep up the good job. If they were being killed for food it would be different, people need to eat .. killing an animal for it's horn is wrong.
Anthony Mims 7 years ago
This article doesn't really explore how the local justice system decides after a kill whether poaching was taking place and whether the kill was justified. Without knowledge of the local legal system, this article tells us practically nothing.
Sally Willis 7 years ago
How many innocent people were killed? None, they're not innocent. They're willing to kill one of these majestic, endangered animals just for the horns. Bravo to the park rangers!
Chris Lemmon 7 years ago
How many innocent people were killed. Probably zero. Good for the conservationists. This approach should be taken more universally in areas with highly poached endangered wildlife.
Devin Eagan 7 years ago
have they gone to far? are you f*****g stupid? no this needs to be allowed to protect every endangered species around the world
Devin Eagan 7 years ago
have they gone to far? are you f*****g stupid? no this need to be allowed to protect every endangered species around the world
William Staines 7 years ago
Poachers don't think beyond their nose, they don't care if these animals die out. So if they know the odds are stacked against them they may seek alternative ways to make a living. Keep up the good work!
Jeffery Staples 7 years ago
I don't see what the problem is here, if you're willing to kill something for nothing other than greed, than why can't the park guards shoot you to protect a species for future generations?
Mariel Fülber 7 years ago
Kudos, Kaziranga National Park! And if you ever need some help to reload the guns, please don't be ashamed to call me...
Mitchell Morris 7 years ago
You can't say that "These people all went after the rhino horn", which is highly illegal, but end it with "How many innocent people were killed?". That creates a contradiction.
Austin Werley 7 years ago
This article is ridiculous. Poachers know full well they can be shot and killed for what they're doing yet choose to do it anyway. These park rangers aren't just blowing people away because they can, it's there JOB to protect these endangered animals. Not only that but many park rangers (not necessarily at Kaziranga) have been killed by poachers. None of these poachers are "innocent people", they're dangerous criminals. These rangers risk their own lives to protect these rhinos. It's sad that it's come to this but clearly no other method works to stop poaching. Also, viewer discretion advised, but the video below (depicting a live rhino left to die after having it's horn ripped off) is a clear example of the brutality of poaching and why these rangers are necessary https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=suFKy0jL2AY
John Gregory 7 years ago
How does one sign up to go work at this park? I want to shoot some more stupid people and get paid for it.
Nikolai Post 7 years ago
I'm a hunter. But not a poacher. Kill the poachers who do not follow law.
David Baker 7 years ago
"And how many innocent people were killed?" answer= NONE. Every single person shot and killed was carrying a hunting rifle, in direct defiance of the "NO RIFLES PERMITTED" signs, hence were there for one reason and one reason only, and paid the price for their intentions.
Elaine Stewart-Matthew 7 years ago
I see no problem with them killing poachers. Rhinos are endangered, poachers are not.
Mariel Fülber 7 years ago
Kudos, Kaziranga National Park! And if you ever need some help to reload the guns, here I am
sophiria sam 7 years ago
they are trying to make an animal go out of the face of the earth . There are 8 bil of us so i think if you kill ALL the poachers it just make the world better for both side . And if you are innocent and you tress pass protective ground like this , you are too dumb to be alive , sorry The ranger did a good job , they put thier life on the line to protect thles rino
Stephen Carlsten 7 years ago
Yeah. Humans are extraordinarily over-populated, and more importantly, not special at all. So, if you're an especially s****y human, I see now reason why becoming dead is a problem.
Предраг М. Клекачкоски 7 years ago
Poachers do a harm so great that can not be repaired and they do it for money that they can make with other less destructive jobs. They are warned and know the price of killing an innocent rhino, so I approve the killing of 50 or more ''people''. Keep up the great work.
Margaret Hodgkins 7 years ago
I say, more power to them! If you are in the park to poach, you deserve to die!
Norbert Snorre 7 years ago
Sure. It is the only way to stop the poachers. And most of the time the only way to even catch them.
Artur Roszak 7 years ago
I approve of this of this approach, good job to whoever made this decision.
Délcio Correia 7 years ago
I AGREE. KILLING EVERY ONE WHO TRY TO KILL THOSE ANIMALS... PEOPLE WHO KILL THOSE ANIMALS (OR OTHER ELSE) DESERVES TO BE KILLED TO...
Bill Forrest 7 years ago
Keep right on shooting them. Don't go after the rhino? don't get shot, simple!
Jim Lillie 7 years ago
Was this article written by a poacher, or his family? Why the concern for a useless thug willing to allow something to go extinct over a horn with value placed on it by idiots? Humans are not even close to extinction, I say double the number of poaches killed. In fact, that could be a draw to the park, no one in there is an innocent just walking through, organize poacher hunts, I'd like to shoot one of the poachers myself......
Justin Barney 7 years ago
I believe that poachers should be open game for being shot!! In fact, I believe that anyone seen stalking whales, elephants, rhinos, and any other endangered species should be opening themselves to be free game for anyone wishing to protect these species without the ability to hide or protect themselves!! Poaching of these gentle giants, just so some rich businessmen can be sold snake oil, is beyond disturbing!! God gives us these amazing creatures to enjoy, and in the evilness of sin and greed, we murder them just for a small portion of their bodies!! We should be allowed to treat poachers on a global scale as unimportant as they view the lives of these wonderful creatures!! Open up the season on poachers of endangered species, both in Africa and International waters!! That will make whalers and poachers think twice about their murderous actions!!
John Kasarda 7 years ago
If they were smart they would sell the poachers organs to raise funds to help the preserve ? All for killing the poachers........just sayin.
Dennis Maloney 7 years ago
No it hasn't gone to far by any means. !!! Blow those mf'ers out of their shoes!
Partha Gogoi 7 years ago
To the author? How has this gone too far? Who is endangered? Human or rhinos? Who is a threat to the eco system? The poachers or the rhinos. You should analyze the situation properly. When there are strict orders that no one should roam around in the prohibited areas after sunset, I don't know wtf you are talking about.
Soma Biswas 7 years ago
And you will be writing why no poachers have been arrested or killed if they have failed to stop the poachers(killed by park guards) on their mission to kill rhinos...heights of double standards!!!
Jordan Rovelto 7 years ago
Are you serious bleeding heart much ? These rhinos were brought to the brink of extinction by poachers..people who kill for money and have no concern about the future of a species .. I say this isn't far enough or people wouldn't be dying.. as Jim Carey said in liar liar "QUIT BREAKING THE LAW A*****E!!"
Andrew Corbett 7 years ago
H mmmm.. has it gone too far? How many rangers have been killed? I see why allowing shoot to kill is necessary. It would be very ineffective and dangerous to be a park guard otherwise. The people who are hunting the rhino are getting a big pay day, are already breaking the law and are carrying big guns. Park rangers are probably also targets and may need to shoot to kill in order to preserve their own lives. Rangers would not be able to simply arrest a group of people with guns if the poachers knew they wouldn't get shot. They would have no quams about shooting the park ranger and making off with several thousand dollars in rhino horns. I doubt the poachers can be reasoned with. Know they could get killed over rhino horns is at least I good deterent and in the end may mean the Rangers would have to shoot fewer poachers.
Retha Fischer 7 years ago
Are you serious? This has not gone too far and they can't kill with impunity..what nonsense
Lisa Mills 7 years ago
I'm pretty happy with the outcome. Endangered rhinos are being saved by this practice.
Audrey Cooper 7 years ago
I believe either way you're killing a living being, with parents, and possibly children. The rhinos are being killed. I think it's not our decision to decide who lives or dies but, these people are killing them so I believe this action is pretty justified
Juliana Mengardo 7 years ago
Really? Is there actually someone who believes that this has gone too far? I don't.
Phillip McKay 7 years ago
Shoot the poachers dead where they stand. What this article is saying is that a human life is more important than an animal life. Really?? Is that your stance? We're all in this together...animals and humans. It's time that we learn the importance of our other inhabitants on this little planet, and start protecting them as we do ourselves. Shoot the poachers. Then, maybe word will get out that we're serious about protecting them!!
Bianca Meglio 7 years ago
What a b******t article. The journalist is an idiot who does not know anything about poachers. They wouldn't think twice about killing an animal or a human.
Graham Jordan 7 years ago
This successful strategy to protect defenceless wildlife against well armed poachers has my full support. I have supported conservation efforts through donations to WWF and paid NP fees on several occasions to see these magnificent animals, but rhinos are still being poached in Kruger and elsewhere. Harsh measures against poaching are totally justified to ensure this species survives, however the middle men, the importers of the horn and the countries where the horn is imported need to be dealt with as a priority.
Stacy Halie Willison-Smith 7 years ago
I think it's okay to kill potchers because it's not right to kill Rino's just for there horns I think more parks should do this to protect the endangered species
Ian Howard 7 years ago
The question is, could this kind of punishment ever be justified?And how many innocent people were killed? YES YES YES a thousand times YES! To treat poachers as human is an insult to humanity. The animals cannot defend themselves against rifles so hiumans with rifles have to do it for them!
Ian Grantz 7 years ago
How's many innocent people were killed? None. Poachers are not innocent. Poachers kill for capital and personal gain, this park kills them to protect the future of a species on earth. As far as I'm concerned poachers are the same as serial killers or mass murderers: a waste of space and energy. While I am sad to see the loss of life, the worst thing that could be done right now is let these poachers keep doing their thing.
makenzie stephenson 7 years ago
People are killing Rhinos and elephants and these animals are dieing and this person only cares that people are dieing, not the animals.
Arye Bognar 7 years ago
They should leave the "potential poachers" bodies to rot the same way that the poachers leave the mutilated rhinos' bodies to rot. Best use for a dead poacher: to scare off the live ones.
Jimena Arroyo 7 years ago
Well, humans are not in danger of extintion and these awful people know the risk of hunt.
Richard Colbourne 7 years ago
Keep shooting the bastards. It's not too far it's a necessary evil. The poor rhinos can't defend themselves against guns so we should.
Luis Cotovio 7 years ago
Screw it. Shoot the bastards. If any "innocent" person is shot, then whoever does it should be held accountable for the mistake, no doubt. But if they shoot a poacher, good. People have been destroying the environment and obliterating animal species for profit with impunity for too long.
Theri McEntee 7 years ago
Any port found to be exporting these should also be heavily fined / shut down. People can only get the horns IF they are allowed &/or able to get OUT OF THE COUTRY Send islamic radicals there ... they love to kill people in the name of their allah and via its self-appointed, narcissistic prophet, muhammid ... they believe that killing the infidels is their clear passage into their heaven with 72 virgins awaiting for them ... SICK
Majush James 7 years ago
A perfect strategy. I think the world need to change to this tune almost immediately to protect wildlife. Option 2 would be to capture poachers when possible and drop them in a human game reserve in Africa where trophy hunters get to go hunt these poachers down. can even broadcast it live on tv and get to use that money for further preservation of nature.
Layla Babb 7 years ago
I am from South Africa, and when you have seen a rhino calf cowering next to its dead mother who has died from blood loss due to half of her face being hacked off for her horn, then you would approve the shooting of poachers as well. This is not for meat. Nothing else is ever touched on these rhinos. Here is a link where you can see some of the more savage ways the animals have died, note of warning it is graphic: http://www.protrackapu.co.za/poaching-incidents/poaching-incidents-gallery/poaching-incidents/rhino-poaching
ADHORTATOR 7 years ago
I am against the death penalty for murder so I can' t agree with death penalty for poaching.
Akkacia Vrtlog 7 years ago
There are no innocent poachers! They should be treated the same way they treat other animals..
Charlene Walsh 7 years ago
I completely agree with this punishment. They are knowingly killing an innocent endangered species for greed. It's so disgusting! Next on the list, people who club baby seals.
Michael Miller 7 years ago
If you walk into a nature preserve with a elephant riffle, your ARE NOT THERE to sight see. so YES kill the damn poachers. then sell their parts to science. maby poachers will go extinct then..........................................
Goh Siying 7 years ago
I've been wanting this "shoot the poachers" thing to happen since I've first heard about poaching. This isn't "too far" at all. Why don't you state that there were rangers who were also killed by poachers too? Poachers don't deserve my pity at all, they know the risks but still continued to murder just for money. By the time justice is finally served where poachers get a life sentence or death penalty, the rhinos will be long gone by then so it's either kill them, or the innocent animals get killed. As long as you're not stupid enough to enter such areas as an ordinary non-poacher, there shouldn't be a problem. 50 is nothing as compared to how many Rhinos and other endangered animals killed by them.
Pranjal Baruah 7 years ago
This approach is very much needed. In the past 2/3 years animals were shot 80/120 per year. Not all facts are correct, there were many instances of firing on both sides that included poachers and forest guards but 50 is not the number of dead. I also appreciate that the park authorities have taken this approach because we seen the numbers of killing of the animal. If there is human rights animals also have the right to live. If humans can kill animals why not do the same to them?
Notchimine Mette 7 years ago
This has not gone too far. It's the only way to save these animals. I wish more Reserves will take this stance. Leave the animals alone or die. It works for me.
Steven Aderman 7 years ago
"how many innocent people were killed?" In what way are they innocent? It clearly states that poachers were killed, it's not like they are killing woman in children, these are people illegally and willingly attempting to kill an endangered species. They knew the risks and what they were getting into.
Sagar Chavan 7 years ago
We, the people sitting behind our laptops really have no right of approving or disapproving this until the fact are known, and mind you facts are not just numbers. there is off course the possibility of this freedom to shoot poachers being misused. but also, hypocrisy as it is, we would be the same people to condone the fall of Rhino numbers in India " DUE TO THE INACTION OF THE FOREST RANGERS"
Mark Gall 7 years ago
The FACTS are that there are well over 7 BILLION humans on this planet, and increasing rapidly, that Asia is far the primary destination for illegal wildlife, and that these animals will be ELIMINATED unless the poaching is stopped. I know a bit about this topic because I'm retired from U.S. Federal law enforcement, and poaching and international sales of wildlife parts were part of my job. I'm also married to a Thai woman, and have spent over 7 years in 21 third world countries in Asia and Central/South America. Poaching will NOT stop without immediately shooting the poachers, as local courts there will NOT provide adequate sentences, and the poachers often walk out of prison shortly after being incarcerated.
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Yoshi Nagato 7 years ago
It is a little bit extreme to shoot the poachers but they won't stop hunting and listening so they have to be punished. Sorry but if you kill an animal just for his horn, teeth or claws you are a bad person. You don't need it, it's not like fur so you are not cold in the winter.
Fei Look 7 years ago
To the writer, in regards to your ending statement, this is not too far. Poaching is heinous. These people are greedy individuals who allow the animal to suffer. On a planet where there are more people than the population of another species, we can bare to sacrifice the stupid few who CHOSE to do something illegal and malicious like ivory poaching.
Rick Harington 7 years ago
Oh so dear author you forget that when they take that horn they actually kill the rhino. I would rather have them killed then killing an innocent rhino.
Debby Gent 7 years ago
It is simple - Do Not Approach with out permission - otherwise your intentions are wrong!
Lina Cruz 7 years ago
Is more than justified, they are people keen on killing for money, why not fight for life... this practice should be stablished in every park and natural reserves. If people need to learn on the bad way so is not another way, because law and politeness are taking us to nowhere!!! Go the rangers!! 😘😘
Mike Daasnes 7 years ago
The poachers are not being killed as a trophy, or to sell the horns. If you can't do the time, don't do the crime. I approve of the killings. Period.
Rebecca Spivey 7 years ago
I'm completely OK with killing poachers. When they go out to kill an endangered animal for money so someone can get a hard-on, then they deserve what happens to them.
Francia Sofia 7 years ago
They had it comin'. I mean humanity is so self center they always believe they are more important than other species.
Ben Goodall 7 years ago
Poaching is illegal, and the park has to be acting within the law, so yeah, perfectly fine. Going after the horn only, and leaving the rest of the animal means you arent hunting for food and resource, purely financial. so sorry, the punishment fits the crime.
Jonathan Sklar 7 years ago
Poachers aren't innocent people. They are killing defenseless animals and sometimes leaving them to suffer half alive while they cut off the Rhinos horns. They aren't innocent they know what they are doing.
Chi Nguyễn 7 years ago
These poachers are not innocent people I must say. Lool at how they kill thousands of animals just to get a small part of their body. I've seen many pictures of rhinos which got their body opened cruelly and I just cried a lot. Why don't you say animals are innocent but those poachers?
Quinn Purdy 7 years ago
Kill as many poachers as needed! How dare they go around killing beautiful creatures! Shame on them.
Jerry Mathers 7 years ago
The one thing we can do with less of is humans. Especially ones that are robbing the world of species for money. I wouldn't mind if they expanded their efforts into other countries and target big game hunters that lure animals off reservations.
Spike Leigh 7 years ago
Good shoot on site the animals must be protected and the rangers must be protected.
B. Adley E. 7 years ago
If "shoot to kill" is to far, perhaps the government could substitute that with "shoot to maim," "shoot to cripple," or "shoot to paralyze" instead.
Maria She 7 years ago
7000 rhinos left on the earth. Against 7 Billion people on the same planet, that have taken and destroyed all land, air&water, killing every living specy on the planet that walks, swims, crawls, or flies. Killing people who want to take more lifes of protected species inside protected areas - so sad. Nearly breaks my heart... Like - for real!
Trisha Dragon 7 years ago
Large scale "castle doctrine". It's not like they don't know. You're also intentionally ignoring the very real heinous nature of the poachers. You have conveniently forgotten how quickly the scumbag poacher garbage will end the life of a park employee. The whole GD reason guns are carried by the park employees is for SELF protection. Poachers don't just say "kk arrest me bruh" ffs. Poachers are 100% safe if they don't freaking poach. Look at it this way, you're 100% safe of dying from a parachute failure if you don't go skydiving. You don't accidentally poach anymore than you accidentally pack a 'chute and hop on a plane. Stay out of other people's s**t. Pretty simple stuff.
Bryan Passey 7 years ago
If the system works leave it alone,the hunters know the penalties and take the risk. Once more we see the bleeding heart lefties sticking there noses in where not required,and their holier than thou attitude.The winners are the animals,leave them to nature.
Aduain Captor 7 years ago
What do you mean with innocent? How can a poacher be innocent? I'd love to shoot some poachers myself tbh. I love this technique, yes please keep shooting them. There's too many humans on this planet but not enough rhinos, so killing a few of those disgusting scum will only do good.
Barbara Wagner 7 years ago
I think it's justified and the last part of the article where it says "how many innocent people were killed." They weren't innocent they went to poach...about time something is done about this! Wish we could kill people who abuse and torture all animals!!!!!!
Atticus Ho 7 years ago
I certainly hope all these 50 people were really poachers, not innocent people shot dead by the park guards for any other reason.
Karyl Agana 7 years ago
If people are there with the intention of harming rhinos, then the deed is justified. Poachers are not innocent, beginner or seasoned they enter a profession with the intention of killing for profit. I understand self-preservation, but I do not understand preservation at the cost of torturing another animal.
Chris Langdon 7 years ago
Excellent. With 6 Billion...ish humans, a large proportion of which are idiots and only a few rhinos crack on.
Joan Miller 7 years ago
Innocent people? If you go in there to try to do harm knowing they can shoot and kill you, you deserve what you get. Always someone defending the evil ones.
Anthony Nizza 7 years ago
I'm damn glad they kill the poachers!!!! They get what they deserve!!!!! I agree 100% with Tiffany!!!
Tabitha Trevino 7 years ago
Well don't complain u asked for it and it's done and has provided proof of it effectiveness
JjRr 7 years ago
Who the hell wrote this article! If someone tries to kill another human being its ok to kill the murderer to protect yourself or others, but its not ok if that other is an animal? Not even if it's endangered? What the hell is wrong with you Elizabeth, you are sick, what do you mean this has gone too far? Do you mean because the managed to safe the rhinos? We can afford to lose some poachers but we cant afford to lose more rhinos, the only decision is in the hands of the poachers, what do they want to do?
Peter Lundell 7 years ago
No, dear Elizabeth, this has not gone too far, and the people killed are most certainly not innocent. You can kid yourself but not the rest of us. The very fact that so many scumbag poachers are killed is precisely why the rhinos are finally being saved and making a comeback. When poachers were treated the way you apparently may want them treated, poaching went rampant. Poachers know exactly the evil they are perpetrating, and they know the consequences. I've always hoped that this sort of action would be taken. Thank you so much for reporting this great news.
Martin Behrens 7 years ago
What I think? Elizabeht put sock in it and write about something thats more up your alley. Make-up or something.
Gordana Abidović 7 years ago
Kill them. All. They are distinct. Humans are not. Humans are going to destroy rhinos population. Rhinos are not going to destroy human race. So they are innocent, not those people.
Cuteazdell Zoz 7 years ago
This isnt too far, we arepart of nature, and if we keep ruining nature, then our existance will be ruined completely. Human has gone too far, and finally someyhing is being done to stop the madness
Simon Jost 7 years ago
These rangers Just do their work, and it's a damn good one! What is not mentioned is that in many other territories, the poachers never hesitate to shoot at rangers! This is the best solution together with educating consumers that horns are not a miracle cure to anything...!
Richard Tyndall 7 years ago
It has not gone too far at all. If they go armed to kill then they should expect to be met with lethal force. I would like to see this extended to other parks. Protect our endangered species as if they were our own children.
Rajat Lonare 7 years ago
journalism at it's worst ,without giving information about innocent people killed ,they just assumed someone would be inncont among poachers shame on such journalism
Zori the degu 7 years ago
Very well done! This have to be done everywhere. Most of the poachers that where shot probably killed hundreds of animals only for their horns or beautiful fur. My opinion is, that this is one of the most severe crimes against nature. They went into a natural habitat and killed its residents. If they give a life sentence for a murder, why should other living creatures be different? These people made a sin and and now they must pay for it.
Janis Tullis 7 years ago
I would think that there would be away to shot and tranquilize a person to stop them. If you can do it to wild animals than why not humans?
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
To what end? Even when they bring these lowlife scum in alive to stand trial one of two things always happens, (1) they 'mysteriously escape before trial, or (2) the judge lets them off with minimal bail and/or fines... then they just go back to doing what they did before. Corruption is so widespread in that country, no justice can be rightfully served. This justice is the correct justice and true justice as the poacher scum have proven they respect nothing less. I ask you, how much chance does a Ranger stand with a 'dart gun' in his hand, when the poacher is aiming an AK47 automatic gun at them? A DEAD POACHER won't be back tomorrow to murder the wildlife again.
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Linda Fearn 7 years ago
Now they need to kill all the bastards who hunt the elephants and tigers too. Good for the park keepers. The poachers are not poaching to feed hungry people, they are doing it for pure greed.
John Console 7 years ago
Personally they haven't went to far enough and if your out there in the National Park and doing something to give them reason to shoot you YOUR FAULT. Hell even in the States a Farmer has the ability to protect his Live stock and Shoot Trespassers. Moral of what I am saying Don't be doing any shady s**t.
Tyler Bond 7 years ago
How is this any different than a security guard who shoots a bank robber? Are you seriously suggesting we feel bad for these scumbags?
danny Davies 7 years ago
the poachers also attack and shoot at park rangers. i approve of this approach. kill whoever kills these animals.well done
Dan Srdjan 7 years ago
As a human being I approve this approach! This is not to far! Well done to the park!!!! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
spirit wolf 7 years ago
I support this act! Kill the fu*kers! There's a lot of human to spare....
Justin Bentkowski 7 years ago
Poachers are criminals and they don't care who they have to kill should you get in their way. If you think these people are innocent perhaps you should go there in person and ask them nicely to cease and desist. Let me know how that goes for you, if you live i mean.
Justin Bentkowski 7 years ago
Poachers are criminals, they don't care who they have to kill should someone get in their way. If you think this is going too far then perhaps you should go ask them nicely to cease and desist. Let me know how that works out for you, if you are still alive i mean.
Sonny Krogh 7 years ago
How is this going to far??? If they did this for the little bastards stealing cars in my town, no more cars would be stolen.....
Shane Freund 7 years ago
F**k poachers. Kill all those f*****s. This park is doing the right thing.
Suzie Bright 7 years ago
This approach is the ideal way to protect endangered animals from extinction. Humans should use their brains and make a decision not go into the area! They are either stupid or a poacher so the world is a better place for them being shot!
Linda Chan 7 years ago
If I have a sign on my fence that says 'beware of dog' and you still decide to trespass into my yard, then it's your problem not mines. These poachers know what they are dealing with when they go after those rhinos.
Sara Mesa Santacreu 7 years ago
Poacher are NOT innocent... they deserve what they get and worst! No mercy for poacher!
Ozzy Ortega 7 years ago
Who's the whinny a*s who wrote this!? LMAO. you go in to do something illegal. You go in knowing you might get shot for doing it. Then you deserve to be taken out of this earth. You don't deserve to breath the same air as these majestic animals.
Daniel Williams 7 years ago
"This goes too far!" Shut up hippie. Your block party you call a protest isn't saving animal's lives.
Branden Hart 7 years ago
I don't see a problem here, I see an effective solution that should be adopted world wide.
Salman Ali 7 years ago
A killer with an ugly intention to harm an innocent animal can not be an innocent guy So they deserve this treatment
christine c 7 years ago
I like this idea, these animals aren't killed for food but profit. Animals deserve to live on Earth and humans need to protect them.
Jaina Berry 7 years ago
THEY F*****G DESERVE EVERY BIT OF IT! I WANT TO JOIN PLEASE! I JUST WANT TO SHOOT THERE GUYS OUT!
Cristina Predescu 7 years ago
I think it's fair! It should be like this in all parks if you ask me
Atli Ingolfsson 7 years ago
F**k no! They were there to kill the Rinhos for theyr horns. Who knows how many animals the have killed and tortured before they got what they deserved??!! So f**k no not at all. Hope more National Parks and Nation's start doing the same
Atli Ingolfsson 7 years ago
Justified? F*****g hell yes!!! Those f*****g poatchers came there to kill the Rinhos and who knows how many animal's they had tortured and kill be for they got what they deserved?? Hope more National Parks and Nation's will statt doing the same!
Christine Kuzdas 7 years ago
I mean, if they are clearly breaking a law, (which if they are poaching then they obviously are), are they really "innocent"? I get it, 50 people, 50 families impacted. But let's not skew the facts for a sympathy vote here. Let's call it like it is.
Katinka Min 7 years ago
This is insane. You can't just shoot people who hunt animals that are becoming extinct. You'd have to bomb every fish trawler, too. And nuke Monsanto because tehy WILL kill off the bees if they keep going on as they do. The main problem here are not the poachers - the problem are legions of men totally obsessed with their penises and erections and believing absolutely everything a quack will tell them. (Including that raping a virgin will curse them of HIV)
Atli Ingolfsson 7 years ago
Hi. Now my self is a fisherman here in Iceland. There is a special group of scientists who have a well equipped ship with the lates technology and they go each year and estimate and calculate how much there is of all major fish species where Icelandic boats and ship can fish. And out of their researches the quoda for each year is based on. And fich is not in or on any list over endangered animals
Load More Replies... Tiffany Kraha 7 years ago
Poachers know the risks when they try to kill endangered species. Something has got to be done. This isn't too far.
Brian Kemboi 7 years ago
Juan, I live in Kenya, Africa. People do not poach these animals for meat. No one does it not for close to 30 years now. The motivation is always the horns. Elephants are killed, de-horned and the carcass decompose. No one takes the meat. Currently, Kenya has the last three northern white rhinoes and they are past the point of reproduction. If such measures were taken, maybe these rhinoes would not be in this situation.
Load More Replies... Don Zirbel 7 years ago
YES I want them to be killed...they respect nothing but personal profit and care nothing about the rest of life that shares this planet. They themselves have proven there is no other way to stop them, so they can rot on the ground for all I care.
Load More Replies... Delta Force 7 years ago
.The question is how many innocent Rhinos and other species may have been killed? Ask that too.....
Adriana Bosman 7 years ago
1,175 rhinos poached and killed in 2015 alone. So extremely sad
Load More Replies... Darth Vader 7 years ago
My opinion, not enough poachers are being killed. You will know before you enter the area that if you trespass you will be shot, and if you still enter knowingly and you are not a poacher, then sorry, you are dumb. Rhino's are being killed at an alarming rate every single day. Soon there will be no more of them, but guess what there will still be moronic humans everywhere. When the rhino are gone, they will look at another animal as a target and they will be gone too if drastic measures like this are not put in place. Down vote this comment all you want, but that's the sad truth. I have no remorse for poachers who get shot regardless of their circumstances.
kytetiger 7 years ago
Poachers still got enough incentive to kill endangered species. As long as there is demands people will hunt these beautiful creature (and essential for the balance of our ecosystem). What if these people have a good enough job to provide for their families, and got the education to build a durable system? What if the people who usually buy these horns got an education and no longer believe in fairytales about the "vertue" of keratine?
Load More Replies... Márk Beregszászi 7 years ago
"However, little is talked about the fact that in 2015, more people were shot dead by park guards then the number of rhinos killed by poachers." Is that supposed to be gruesome? There are 8 billion people on this planet and 3,600 of those rhinos. Guess I will not shed tears for the poacher scum. At least one park knows what to do to protect these endangered animals.
PJ 7 years ago
It's actually quite simple. If you don't want to get killed, don't go into an area where you can be mistaken as a poacher. If you think the penalty is too far, then go arrest those at the root of the problem. Chances are you can't, and won't. China has already announced new measures against importing ivory and other keratin animal products. We're getting there, slowly.
Benson Wainaina 7 years ago
@Michelle every national park that has big game has an electric fence around it. It's actually illegal to sneak in there. No one wanders in there, there's parks where the Maasai live and even those have a fence outside. Also the park rangers are always locals...they aren't a foreign force brought from far away, they know anyone who might be there on legitimate business, those people also don't carry weapons or hide in the bush or try run when they see rangers...which am assuming makes it easy to know someone who's upto no good
Load More Replies... Aunt Messy 7 years ago
How many poachers have shot and killed witnesses (including park employees) to their crimes? Did anyone bother to look that up? I don't condone randomly killing people, but poachers are not sweet innocents. When this much money is at stake, things get violent.
Aunt Messy 7 years ago
It's a simple question, Arty. How many poachers have shot witnesses to their crimes? Google is your friend. Why are you so frightened to look it up? You keep spewing your nonsense, but you can't answer one simple question? *dismissed*
Load More Replies... Dorota 7 years ago
Innocent people? There is nothing innocent about them. Kill them, kill those bastards.
Crow King 7 years ago
Michelle are you f*****g kidding me? Are you actually sympathetic towards poachers? Why do I feel like you got some ivory in your house?
Load More Replies... Tim Hussey 7 years ago
No it has not gone too far. It has 100% worked. Nobody is forcing them to poach - the consequences are harsh but necessary. Stay out and live. Murder and steal and you get reap what you sew. 'Let Live and Live' in an amendment of the well known phrase.
Varun Chauhan 7 years ago
Well there is one more side of the story.These poachers are not some guys with guns killing Rhinos.They are part a of a bigger mafia and they are equipped with assault rifles like AK-47 and M-16. Rangers are often get shot or attacked as well & they in turn are equipped with simple rifle. http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/poachers-armed-with-ak-47-kill-another-rhino-in-kaziranga-toll-rises-to-17-this-year/story-7Ty8kBQRSGHTN6yiaiyOPL.html Recently there was even a documentary about this on Nat Geo(not very sure about the channel though). Some of these poachers are also part of bigger nexus who lend money to the locals and when they are unable to pay it back then mafia threaten the locals for their life in exchange of the information about the places where Rhinos can be found. So projecting it the way that rangers can kill anyone and can get away with that is not a fair assumption. And even after all this there are 2-3 failed and 1 successful attempt of poaching every month.
Casandra Nițescu 7 years ago
If this is the only way to stop morons from exterminating an entire species because of greed then I say do it. Those poachers deserved it.
भार्गव दत्ता 7 years ago
First of All please come to Assam once and check data's how many Rhinos killed every year in Assam. How many Forest Guards and Rangers are attacked by These poachers. As A son of Forest officer I have seen what situations my father and his colleague went through because of these poachers. So to save Rhino and their own life they shot down poachers isn't it fair enough ?
Brian Kemboi 7 years ago
I approve this measure. 1,300 rhinos were killed illegally in Africa last year alone. This killings is mainly to feed the appetite of Asian markets. Furthermore, 20,000 to 25,000 elephants are killed in Africa every year.
Einar Einarsson 7 years ago
China has banned import if ivory. Tiggs Benoit: hated really? Animal rights and protection in many countries are really bad..but to say asians are hated us not right.
Load More Replies... Reva Madhava 7 years ago
There are far too many humans on this planet. Shooting a few to save a species that is endangered because of human activity is necessary and good.
Mirriam Banda 7 years ago
How is a person that murders innocent species just for a pile of dead tress ever called Innocent? I am on the rangers' side because murderers like these have been warned multiple times but they do not seem to want to co-operate, and they continue to harm and destroy nature. This has not gone far because if the only way they will be able to protect the rhinos is by killing those murderers, then they might as well do it because they were warned.
Ken Flagor 7 years ago
Michelle- They are completely justified! And I have put a gun to someone's head for protection.
Load More Replies... Liliana Foltean 7 years ago
Wait, what?!??? You seriously asking how many people must die?????? Well, I hope all the people that hunt and kill animals! That' s what they deserve: a life for a life! We are too many of as on this planet already, and those guards are actually doing us a favor!
Atli Ingolfsson 7 years ago
Well in thoes situation yes. I can't say farmers or butchers sould be killed or the people that work or sell meat or people that buy meat for that matter..
Load More Replies... Jorge Martinez 7 years ago
50 people? This is a low number. Where can I sign? I want to contribute.
Lexi 7 years ago
I hate how this article is up in arms over poachers dying, what about the fact that poachers could wipe out the majority of an entire species within months if allowed free reign. The punishment fits the crime. I'm sorry but IMO poachers should all drop dead in a ditch, I'm not an advocate for violence, but even I would never hesitate to kill someone taking aim at an endangered species.
Neil Joseph 7 years ago
Driving a species to extinction causes irreparable harm to the ecosystem, and thus all life. We have the death sentence for murder. Driving species after species to extinction is equivalent to mass murder on a larger timeline. If no other punishment has dissuaded poachers, this might. The diversity of life on earth, of the food chain, is necessary for the sustainability of life. At some point, we need to start protecting animals from extinction.
Rafaela Freitas 7 years ago
Going too far? I'm sorry There are about 3,600 Rhinos and 7.5 BILLION humans. How is killing poachers of endangered species going too far? I don't think park guards even have a choice anymore. Poachers are scum and will not be missed in humanity's gene pool.
Tiggs Benoit 7 years ago
OMG justice, finally....thank you thank you thank you you made my year
Paul Byrne 7 years ago
That is a brilliant approach, there are currently 8 billion people on this planet, it is project that in 40 years the population will be 32 billion, with the amount of rhinos left on this planet I think a few dead poachers is a fair trade for the survival of a species.
Svilen Dinev 7 years ago
"How many innocent people were killed?" They would not be there and shot if they were innocent.. Don't kill and you won't be killed, it's not hard to comprehend
Crow King 7 years ago
Michelle holy s**t are you for real? Do you really believe that it's alright to kill to extinction because there's money in it? There's no way you're a real person, you have to be troll
Load More Replies... Kimberly Puchniarz 7 years ago
Of course the killing of poachers can be justified!! Maybe, just maybe other poachers will get the damn message of what will happen to them!
Beverly Hoffman 7 years ago
YES it IS Justified!! Rhinos are totally helpless & can Not defend themselves!! As for your stupid comparison of numbers of each? They are gangs Of 5 to a dozen WITH machetes, knives slashing the horns off these helpless animals & leaving them defenseless!! There Should be a Bounty on the poachers!!
John Johannesen 7 years ago
The only thing that's gone too far is poaching. This is absolutely justified. Poachers are not innocent people, so no innocent people were killed.
Kristine Zuberga 7 years ago
Innocent people?!? Are u f*****g kidding me? They're not innocent, let those f*****s be shot and gelded! F*****g poachers they deserve it!
Zori the degu 7 years ago
Oh and I forgot...For people who disagree with me, if you can afford an expensive gun, then what`s the problem taking care for your family? I know some people are forced to kill animals to live, but they usually don`t own such weapons and they kill really small number. We are omnivores, it`s normal. But killing animals to become rich... It`s astonishing such heartless people still exist.
Simanta Das 7 years ago
Hi! Namaskar. This national Park is in my place. Rhinos are our pride. we will protect them at ant cost. yes we are killing Poachers...not the innocent one....killing of Poachers going on and we will continue it. My government is doing the right thing and we are with the government...one more thing where was the western media when Rhinos were killed by poachers...Why suddenly BBC has so much interest in our matter... These are our animals, These Jungles are our and law is our...By the way i am uploading only one pic and that will tell you what poachers do with these Rhinos..We will give punishment to the Poachers.... 29-06-15-K...937a64.jpg
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
I support what you're doing 110%!! I've been begging for ALL PARKS on the African Continent to take these same measures! GOD BLESS ALL RANGERS!! Their bravery against these scum, fighting with primitive weapons, while those lowlife shits murder them and the wildlife with the best of machinery, should be met with the exact same punishment - it fits the crime!!! The mamby-pamby passive ways have not done a single thing to stop these poacher scum! They probably laugh at any attempts to educate, train, etc that the passives would continue to do... meanwhile Rangers and Wildlife continue to be murdered! And the local judges clearly do nothing and basically just set these monsters free with minimal fines/fees so they can do it all again - so now the brave and fearless Rangers are our only hope to save all of humanity's wildlife - as all humans can trace their roots to Africa! HANG ALL POACHERS ON THE HIGHEST TREES TO ROT!
Load More Replies... Dan Hoover 7 years ago
Humans will never be happy until everything, other than themselves, are dead. All because horny males in already overpopulated countries have this idea that success is only measured by reproduction. If you can't get it up, dude, spare the elephants and rhinos and buy yourself some viagra. If not, take Scrooge's advice: "die and decrease the surplus poulation".
rakuninaru 7 years ago
"They are mostly marketed as a miracle cure for everything from cancer to erectile dysfunction" such level of ignorance up to our days...
A Mueller 7 years ago
How many humans are on the planet - and how many rhinos? (Or elephants, tigers, sharks,……… )Every country should handle it like that. Yes, some little percentage of humans will be killed innocently. But always remember, its 100% of innocent animals who where killed by the poachers. GO ON -KILL POACHERS! In fact they asked for it
Mohammed Akram Ali Mehkri 7 years ago
Yes, its the need of the hour. Poachers are basically trespassing on protected land, killing defenseless animals for personal gains. They are well aware of the risks involved. Would we even question this if a murderer was roaming amidst our societies and if police shot him/her down. Park Rangers are basically police in the wild and build a relationship with the environment over a periods of time and also gain some level of acceptance by the animals in the wild. They risk a lot to ensure the animals - endangered or not - are protected. And more importantly they have been empowered by the laws - local and international (where applicable) to do the needful.
Barbara Caccavale Fixsen 7 years ago
The numbers are proof.... this works...... I do not think they have gone too far.... keep up the good work!!!
Ajish Doley 7 years ago
I am a local here and the figure is wrong at your end coz every year number of rhino's killed is more than 7-10 in average..Sometime even the procher's tranquilize and cut off the horn alive and it is really inhuman..
Markandey Pathak 7 years ago
These poachers derserve this punishment. Hats off to park guards. Keep punishing those inhuman idiots.
Norman van Druten 7 years ago
YAY!!! Applause to that! "Save the Rhino's - hunt a poacher". As all these people below have commented, poachers have no regard for lives of these and many other animals, only for personal monetary gain. How many Rhino's and other species have to be killed before we take a hard line approach to poaching? I absolutely give these rangers a double thumbs up. Keep up the good work!!
Missy Griggs 7 years ago
I think this oak is a trend setter. I've got no sympathy for an a*****e who would kill an endangered animal for one tiny part if it's body. Keep.shooting poachers!! They're a species that SHOULD be hunted to extinction. Kudos to the park!! Can I donate ammo?
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
Love It! I think someone should start a fund to provide these brave Rangers with guns of the newest, best quality and the ammo that goes with it!! HERE, HERE!!
Load More Replies... Christopher Hamilton 7 years ago
Watch the documentary Virunga sometime. Poachers murder park rangers all the time. They are disgusting people all around and killing them isn't "going too far."
Lewisa Figurative Sculpture 7 years ago
I am tired of human lives being put ahead of animal lives. What makes us so special? ALL life should be honored and protected. At nearly 7.5 billion people on the planet we outnumber nearly every other species on the planet!
Mehmet Gurbuz 7 years ago
And how many innocent people were killed? Euhh come again ? Innocent? Lol just add more bullets to their head.
Vikrant Singh 7 years ago
Absolutely justified, nothing's gone too far, I hope this is just the beginning. We humans deserve it. The worst of all species.
Nyssa Malouf 7 years ago
The Rhinos and many other endangered animals need to be protected. The poachers know they are doing the wrong thing. I don't feel that this approach is taking it too far. Its just giving back what the poachers are instigating. I do not thing that a life of an animal is any less important then a human life.
Abhimanyu Halder 7 years ago
very much justified... if human can take lives of the animal then there should be very strict law like this to help them survive.
Leke Sokoli 7 years ago
Innocent people killed? Is america really this f*****g stupid? A reporter sees progress to save an entire race of rhino and still brings it back to humans dying and how it's not right. F**k whoever made this article. Seriously. It is 100% against the law to hunt rhinos, just as it is 100% against the law to kill humans. If a human risks or attempts to kill another human, a 3rd party human can come in and save their life and it is 100% justifiable. Same goes for rhinos and any other form of life protected by law, if you see someone trying to take a lawfully protected life. Feel free to blow their brains out.
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
Just because this reporter that wrote this asinine article may or may not be an American... believe me when I say, the majority of us American's do NOT feel the same way. There will always be passive idiots (of every country) that think they can fight violence with non-violent ways, but this has gone on LONG ENOUGH and it should be clear to even the passives that their s**t isn't working... meanwhile the murdering of wildlife continue to rise and they get fewer and fewer. Clearly, they respect nothing but the bullet. A bullet is more than they deserve and is too good for them... I sincerely wish these scumbag poachers die horrible, painful deaths!! KILL ALL WILDLIFE MURDERERS IN THE MOST HEINOUS WAY POSSIBLE IS MY MOTTO!
Load More Replies... Manish Mehta 7 years ago
If you have a problem about poachers being shot,give a workable alternative. Otherwise-- Stop being judgemental! In India , prosecuting poachers is next to impossible. And they never stop. So! Appreciate the results ,not the methods
Ryan Falcone 7 years ago
I am totally okay with this. 50 people? Pppfhhhtt, who cares? That's nothing to the amount of people on Earth and the amount of animals that have been poached. I hope they shoot more people. Stay the hell away from the rhino's or get shot. It's that simple.
Martin Holáň 7 years ago
Article asks: how many innocent people were killed? Well. They were NOT innocent.
David Kurth 7 years ago
This is truly a case where the end justifies the means! When the poachers thought they could kill rhinos with impunity, rhinos died. Now the poachers will try to find other easy money! Good solution!
Kalyan Mohan 7 years ago
i belong to the same state and same district, from what source you have collected this information, there are more informations of rhinos being killed and poachers ran free after that, please stop misguiding people with misinformations, also all the snaps that are posted here are of two horned rhinos, in Kaziranga there are one horned rhinos, not two horned, please atleast post the snaps correctly.
Adriana Bosman 7 years ago
"However, little is talked about the fact that in 2015, more people were shot dead by park guards then the number of rhinos killed by poachers." Seriously? 1,175 rhinos were poached in 2015, and a lot more talking needs to happen around this... 1,175 killed rhinos!!
David Stalder 7 years ago
When I toured Kaziranga 20 years ago, the guards were heavily armed & very vigilant. And I was glad for that! Visits to Kaziranga are allowed only with guided tours, so anyone sneaking through the reserve is already knowingly breaking the law & probably up to no good. I wouldn't worry about the guards shooting large numbers of innocent civilians because innocent civilians prob. know not to wander around the park on their own. This article's biased against endangered species protection. It's written as though there were an equivalence between the lives of rhinos & of poachers, like it'd be 'fair' if more rhinos were killed than poachers. It's also written like the guards who shoot armed, dangerous criminals are themselves murderers who can "get away with impunity" [sic], when in fact they're doing their jobs & it's crucial that they do so. The Kaziranga guards deserve commendation, not condemnation.
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
My exact feelings about this article! Reporters are to report the news, all the news (not just their preference) and their personal feelings should NOT be involved, except perhaps in their byline or side comment. FACTS PLEASE, JUST THE FACTS!
Load More Replies... Craig Lewis 7 years ago
This is not too far, good on them for protecting the rhino's against human greed and stupidity. This should be standard practice in my opinion for endangered species
Larry Mosca 7 years ago
Great. Kill them all! And kudos to those who are protecting those beautiful marvelous incredible animals! Thank you. Keep up the great work.
Paul Firmin 7 years ago
Go after the middle men as well; the ones who sell it on to the Far Eastern buyers.
Jandre Kroeze 7 years ago
I wish they couldkill the Chinese agents who facilitate and/or send out these poachers. They dont care about dead poachers as they keep finding new ones. Killthe snake by the head, not the tail.
Partha Bora 7 years ago
I am from this place jst 40km away from kaziranga national park. In the year 2014 almost 3 rhinos were hunted every month by poachers. These poachers not only killed animals they have killed forest guards too. And shockingly these poachers hv alleged link with terrorists from myanmar.. No international media were running d news at dat time when so many rhinos were killed.. but with d change of d govt in assam many poachers hd been apprehended and many were killed in encounters. Rhino poaching last year hv decreased alot. Isn't this a commendable improvemnt or shld we hv to wait for evry rhinos to b killed by poachers n terrorists??.. why do u show only one side of d story??
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
EXCELLENT POINT! Reporters are supposed to report all news, not just what they want or approve of. Respond directly to this newspaper and ask your question - would be interesting to see their answer(s). Millions of people are of like mind as you!! Kaziranga Park is a shining example that all parks on the African Continent should follow!!
Load More Replies... Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
I was so damn happy when I read the headline of this article!! I yelled out, "WooHoo!" It's like my wildest dreams have come true!! Now, all the other parks need to get onboard by example! KUDOS TO Kaziranga National Park & their Courageous Rangers!!! Keep up the great work! On another note, this reporter should be truly ashamed of herself for writing such a biased article with clear pro-poacher sympathies. Not only is it wrong, but a REAL reporter is supposed to be neutral and report the news, all the news, with stats to back up their writing, not interject their obviously personal feelings throughout. Those should be contained to their byline or side comment... not shape the whole article! This is what's wrong with so many reporters today, they keep interjecting their personal beliefs in their writings. People don't care what you think personally... we strictly want the facts, ALL OF THE FACTS and with proof, so that we can make up our own minds one way or the other!
Bradley Fried 7 years ago
Gone too far? I think mass extinction, habitat destruction, and climate change caused by human overpopulation and greed has gone too far. If this is getting results, post signage and make sure the warnings are clear, but keep doing it.
Mahatma Caine Jeeves 7 years ago
Liz, please spare us the "innocent people" c**p. The park rangers engage when someone is carrying a Kalashnikov. Carry a weapon in a highly-poached area, get shot. End of story.
John Finlayson 7 years ago
If that will help save the Rhinos then I have no problem with it. They feel nothing hen they kill a Rhino why should we feel anything when they get killed.
Mike Dougherty 7 years ago
You don't think these poachers would kill a park ranger to get away??
Claudia Espindola 7 years ago
What are you supposed to do? Go and ask them nicely?, hell no! I rather have one less poucher than a guard or a rhino taken.
Bob Thorton 7 years ago
THESE MAGNIFICENT CREATIONS OF GOD KNOWN AS THE RHINOCEROS FACE EXTINCTION BECAUSE OF HUMAN CRIMINALS KNOWN AS POACHERS. SHOOT TO KILL ANYONE WHO IS POACHING THESE INCREDIBLE BEINGS WHO HAVE EXISTED ON THIS PLANET FOR 50,000,000 YEARS AND HAVE NO NATURAL PREDATORS, EXCEPT ONE, HUMANS WHO SLAUGHTER THEM FOR ILLEGAL PROFIT...THERE SHOULD BE NO DEBATE...IF YOU ATTEMPT TO POACH A RHINOCEROS, PREPARE TO DIE, PERIOD. MAY GOD BLESS THE BRAVE MEN AND WOMEN WHO SERVE AS PARK GUARDS AND PROTECT THESE ICONIC AND INCREDIBLE ANIMALS!!!
Frank Höppener 7 years ago
Yes, this is justified. Nothing else helps. Surely policy papers and politicians don't.
Iwan Setiawan 7 years ago
They do the right punishment, others country can't stop the tiger killer for the skin, elephant for the ivory, many peoplr so greedy for money
Joshua Dunshea 7 years ago
Yeah more people are shot dead because there are more of them and barely any rhinos. The poaches know what they are getting into so if they get shot dead then good riddance! Innocent people!?? Wow are you Pro-Poaching because from the looks of the article you are all about protecting poaches... ha! what a joke. Poachers are human scum that put money above creatures of the earth.
Leslie Delli-Venneri 7 years ago
No sympathy here. If more places adopted this policy the killing of big animals for greed would slow way down. If you can't stand the heat get outta the kitchen.
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
LOL! The 'Dump the Chump/Trump' family are ALL TOO STUPID to know the difference between wildlife and poacher! We'd have to paint a target or animal's face on the back of poachers before they'd know what to shoot!
Load More Replies... Ethan Walker 7 years ago
What the f**k are you talking about innocent people, as your own article claims the people killed are poachers hunting endangered animals because a large chunk of really stupid people are willing to pay a lot of money for something useless. I say all the power to them if this is what it takes for people to stop killing endangered animals, it's not like there is a shortage of humans anyways.
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
AGREED! It should be the FIRST policy implemented in any such cases around the world. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH OF ALL OF IT!!! It's not like humans are on the brink of extinction. This planet could stand to lose a few million evil scum. I, for one, wouldn't shed a tear.
Load More Replies... Kain Baker 7 years ago
Umm good!!! Why should they be aloud to kill an animal and not expect the same thing happen to them?! There's like 7 billion of us and 2400 of them! Hardly a concern
Tara Mitrovka 7 years ago
Drastic? Not at all. Poachers are criminal trespassers hell bent on annihilating species and destroying the planet. They murder anyone and anything standing between them and their target. They know full well the consequences are that they will be shot on sight. Their greed is greater than fear of death.
Emmanuel Dowell 7 years ago
I'm fine with workers killing poachers... I wish more parks would do this to protect animals. I hate most of human society... we are careless, distructive, immature,and cruel. I would hug each one of these workers for killing a poacher... it's not right what these types of humans do, just kill for the fun of it being exotic or for horns and tusks... it's horrible... and I don't believe this is "too far" to me this is birthing more than karma. And I'm glad it's there. Also happy to see this breed of rhinos 🦏 coming back. :3
Vicki Crutchfield 7 years ago
What this article does not tell is how many rangers were killed by armed poachers, before they were trained to shoot back. This is a dangerous job. I am glad to hear they have found people willing to risk their lives to keep endangered species safe.
Trigger Clapham 7 years ago
Apparently none. The leader says "These people all went after rhino horn, as they could be sold for as much as $6,000 for 100g" So they must all have been guilty. If an innocent had wandered into an area where people are assumed to be poachers then either pushed their luck or paid the price for being stupid.
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
Yeah, it's clear this reporter is clearly trying to sway people.... I think she's pro-poacher. Reporters are supposed to be neutral and report all news and if they harbor any feelings one way or the other, it should be contained to just their byline or a side note.
Load More Replies... karhu GG 7 years ago
Its only right that they kill all the illegal hunters. there is too much humans in this planet anyway.
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
My thoughts exactly! I can't think of a better way to "thin the human herds" and do away with evil at the same time! KUDOS to this park and may all the rest follow by example!
Load More Replies... Ned Collie 7 years ago
If they are pointing a gun at these wonderful animals, then kill them!!! they know what they are doing is wrong and risky ....... It doesn't matter how they think they can justify it ..... treat them like the prey they hunt!
Deborah Cole 7 years ago
What were they doing there? They are not innocent they are there for one reason & one reason only to poach, so if they are killed that's on them!!! I have ABSOLUTELY NO SYMPATHY for The POS!!!
Paresh Jai 7 years ago
A life is a life....whether Rhino or Human. If this is what it is going to take to save our wildlife then let it happen. The majority of human beings have very little respect for wildlife am glad to see other human beings standing up for our wildlife. I support this approach and am happy to hear it is working.
Clair Hart 7 years ago
They should've been doing this for years... poaching is abhorrent, is leaving beautiful animals to die in agony and funds terrorism as well ... shoot them all. Bastards.
Ritwick Chakraborty 7 years ago
Dear Elizabeth, get out of that fancy cubicle of yours and visit the jungle once. You know why Kaziranga is a success? Because the people there love the rhinos as family. And it is justified to protect your family. Humanitarian considerations are for humans. Not poachers.
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
I think she needs a new profession... perhaps as a "potential" poacher. LOL
Load More Replies... Mehtab Ahmed 7 years ago
Most of the images of Rihno used here are from Africa not from Kaziranga.
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
Glad some have realized this reporter has NOT done her homework and lives in a glass house, obviously.
Load More Replies... Dani Stoian 7 years ago
The poachers deserve to be killed straight away and their bodies left as food for the eagles.
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
Now, the other National Parks need to grow some real balls and follow by example of KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK! WE LOVE YOU!
Ivan Mostert 7 years ago
I think what the park is doing is 100% accurate poachers doesnt think twice before killing a innocent rhino why should rangers think twice about killing poacher what goes around comes around... well done to Kaziranga national park job well done keep it up
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
FINALLY!!! YES!! YES!!! YES!!! It's about time!!!! These scumbag mother f*****g poachers have it coming!! It's all the will understand or respect - an eye for an eye! For years and years, all the weeny-wishy-washy methods have been tried with ZERO success! As a matter of fact, it's never been worse than it is now! Besides, with the widespread government and political corruption... forget any legal retribution or proper jail time and fines! KUDOS TO KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK!!!
Jason Wood 7 years ago
It is not too far. Poachers know what they're doing and their greed will either cost the world another rink species or it will cost their lives. It's a choice the guards shouldn't have to make but I'm so grateful they're making the right call and protecting this beautiful and unique creatures.
Joye Roberts 7 years ago
good for them, poachers know and will do anything to kill the animals they want to exploit , about time the poachers know what it feels like. KARMA sure can be a b***h
Jamalia Roblon 7 years ago
if this is the best way to protect them from greedy humans ... so be it
Kathy Cook 7 years ago
I'm totally for it....I thought they were dehorning the rhinos, so there was nothing for poachers to go after...or painting them so they were useless to poachers.. but it they get caught poaching,,, they know its against their laws...so, they know the punishment..
Kelleen Louchart 7 years ago
I'm thinking if you are walking around on a rhino reserve with a gun (and are not one of the rangers), they have every right to assume you are poaching and should shoot you.
Kelsey Boondoggler 7 years ago
How tf can the person who wrote this article justify calling poachers "innocent?!" F**k the poachers and f**k the author for that
Andrew Lymburn 7 years ago
Its time poachers and those associated with them got treated the same way they treat the animals and actually people that might happen to get in their way. The death penalty is not too high a price for these "animals"! .... and education of the masses who use the end products from this illegal practice just isnt working yet.
Rick Hassall 7 years ago
I condone zero tolerance of poachers. I understand that many of them see it as a livelyhood, a job, but they are causing a species of animal to face extinction. I would not accept rhino extinction even if their horns did have miraculous healing powers, but they do not. Their deaths are pointless, other than to line the pockets of those still living in the dark ages, or of con men! So f**k em!
Edward Mesa 7 years ago
I have been saying for years I'd be on board to do that. Sign me up. That's how you get people to stop. But it has to be on two fronts, they have to go after the business ringleaders too. Kill the head and scare the employees out of those 'jobs'. It's the same as if an intruder comes on your property to cause harm, you are legally aloud to shoot or use deadly force. These poachers are coming on to refuge protected lands. Why is this even a question? If the people were innocent, they wouldn't be there poaching. 💥
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
Same here!! I just pray all the parks get onboard by example before it's too late!
Load More Replies... Jack Spake 7 years ago
Justified. Should be a world wide law to execute any poacher caught killing an endangered species for what ever the reason.
David Lyle 7 years ago
The Guards are a huge risk for their own lives, as the poachers will murder them to get the horns. It's like guarding the bank, your $$, the guards and robbers.
Karen Gasca 7 years ago
No this is not too far. These people are greedy and only think of themselves and monetary gain. Maybe more of these idiots will be removed from the planet.
Todor Pavlov 7 years ago
Shame on you for sharing this stupid article! You are proving once again that you are not more than an yellow daily webpage! Poachers are criminals! They should be killed! Because of poachers we are losing the most rare species. You should be ashamed of taking the poachers side. If you have any information about innocent people killed - share it, make statistics and do a proper article! Like this you look like on the side of the poachers! Brainless idiots and fake journalists - this is what you are!
Todor Pavlov 7 years ago
The question is how stupid this article is? How do you dare to put this on point! Poachers are criminals! They should be killed! There are no innocent people killed and if they are you should make a proper article with statistics inside. Not to make it like you support poachers! Shame on you!
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
My thoughts too. She needs a new profession... perhaps as a poacher at this park?
Load More Replies... Dalene McIntosh 7 years ago
I don't think its gone too far. Hopefully the poachers will eventually be too afraid to go after Rhino. Frankly, it's justified. Don't wanna die? Don't poach!
Laura Kidd 7 years ago
If they're poaching they deserve what they get. Maybe it will deter future poachers if they know there is a good chance they'll get a bullet in the brain!
Tricia Bower 7 years ago
Poachers know the score when entering the park.If they are stupid enough to believe they can get away with it then tough on them.These and all other animals need protecting from savages.They enter,they die.it's their choice.Yes i think it should happen.It's pure greed,money,money,money for the life of an innocent animal!!!
Edward Hyde 7 years ago
Can we all have a go & line up the corrupt politicians who are taking a cut from poaching too and the chinese billionaires who buy the "product"?. All seems reasonable to me, the rhinos cant shoot but wardens can for them
Ian LukeMitchell 7 years ago
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/mar/06/poachers-kill-satao-ii-elephant-kenya-tsavo-big-tusker This article was posted about a week ago. In my opinion, kill these scummy poachers and hang their dead carcasses around the perimeter of the national parks as a warning to all the other would-be poachers.
Ian Mair 7 years ago
With formal protectors being outgunned and killed for years, this is where it is at. The times are desperate for these species. The same poachers are persistent, repetitive and deadly. It is indeed that dire. Kill or be killed along with the very last of these magestic beings.
Rupert Bauer 7 years ago
My only concern i it doesn't say poachers, it says potential poachers.
Arye Bognar 7 years ago
They're potential because they didn't get to kill any rhinos because the rangers defended the rhinos and themselves.
Load More Replies... Joanna Chavez 7 years ago
Tough, they can stop when the poachers of all animals are endangered.
Karl Watson 7 years ago
I think that this approach should be adopted in Africa as well....it seems to work in protecting the rhino population.
Randall Selinger 7 years ago
Kill them all and let God sort it out....poachers are scum, the more dead, the better!
Lin Clarke 7 years ago
Let's be honest, there is no way the human race will become extinct, barring a catastrophe! Let's protect the innocent and endangered - their lives are far more valuable than a handful of poachers!!!!!
Mary Marineau 7 years ago
I 100% agree with these rangers ! These poachers need to be shot and killed for every endangered animal they have killed and have taken pictures with because they are scums of this earth! Keep protecting those beautiful animals at all costs! There is more humans on this planet and we are the biggest cause of all the animals going to extinction because of greed and luxury at the expense of the animals lives! They see the warning signs and don't listen to the warnings so they deserve to be killed for the're actions because there actions always have a reaction and that is to save the Rhinos by taking your life first! Keep up the good work.
Barry Lauritzen 7 years ago
The answer to the question "can this kind of punishment ever be justified?" is regrettably yes. Poaching and smuggling have always been dangerous, indeed deadly occupations. I'm sure they know the risks when they undertake to loot the park of its resources. I hope there are safeguards in place to prevent collateral damage, but extreme criminality sometimes demands extreme enforcement.
Craig Goeke 7 years ago
If this was a pack of dangerous predators making their way into an area with a limited number of humans people wouldn't think twice about use mercilessly killing them and they would be doing it out of their natural drive to survive. As for how many innocent people were killed? That's a good question but the number of innocent people has to be really low, and I would guess basically all of them were purely accidental. You've got to be packing some serious fire power to bring a rhino down not to many innocent people are going to wander into the depths of an animal preserve carrying that kind of heat.
Bhargav Sarma 7 years ago
First of all, know which pics to use. The rhinos in Kaziranga are one-horned. Next and more importantly, anyone who is willing to take a life for money deserves nothing but a bullet between the eyes.
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
FINALLY!!! YES!! YES!!! YES!!! It's about time!!!! These scumbag mother f*****g poachers have it coming!! It's all the will understand or respect - an eye for an eye! For years and years, all the weeny-wishy-washy methods have been tried with ZERO success! As a matter of fact, it's never been worse than it is now! Besides, with the widespread government and political corruption... forget any legal retribution or proper jail time and fines! KUDOS TO KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK!!! I LOVE YOU GUYS!!!!
Joye Roberts 7 years ago
good for them, poachers are not above doing any thing to kill , its about time they figure out what it feels like, karma can be a b***h
Jamalia Roblon 7 years ago
if this is the best way to protect them for greedy humans... so be it
Lorenzianius LeBello 7 years ago
not a single one of those poachers was an "innocent person" this system works and is completely justified
Kirstie Byers 7 years ago
UHM, they're not "innocent" people being killed if they're poachers. Ugh
Preetha Pradeep 7 years ago
They are doing the right thing. If an unauthorized person is wandering in a protected National Park, he cannot be given the benefit of doubt. He knows the risks, and deserves what he had coming to him.
Dusten Rowzee 7 years ago
YEs the people do have a right to shoot poachers, they murder animals for profit, not meat, skin or hides that kill these creatures for their horns, something that could be stolen using tranq darts instead, They are thoroughly told if your caught you will be killed so it's far game to me
David Fields 7 years ago
Good for the park. Too many legal systems let criminals get off scot-free on technicalities while incarcerating innocent people on those same technicalities. Personally, if someone is caught in the act of a crime, the punishment should befit the crime. You shoot or appear ready to shoot a rhino, then expect to get shot yourself.
Chris Walken 7 years ago
They knew the LAW. Poachers have proven time and time again that they cannot live within a society. F**k 'em!
Debapratim Dutta 7 years ago
Well Rhino's of Kaziranga are One horned rhino..you have shown here two horn rhinos..So correct it. And Rhino's are killed ruthlessly for their horns and if you see how the poachers kill rhino and Cut their Horns while they are alive you will know the level of torture they have to go while alive. So its the right decision to Shoot at sight for poacher..No one is innocent or Civilian..they should be punished in highest order possible.
Vickie Mitchell 7 years ago
I am perfectly fine with this. Should be policy at all endangered species preserves.
Chris Cimorelli 7 years ago
How can you call them innocent people when in the same article you also called them POACHERS? What is the actual count? The article says more poachers have been killed than rhinos. So you're saying the poachers actually pose a threat. Not only that, they're trespassing. I just... I don't see the problem with killing them? I don't think anyone should ever go on a wanton killing spree and just kill people for the sake of it. But this isn't that.
Vickie Mitchell 7 years ago
Perfectly fine with this. It's working so should be the policy at all endangered species preserves. The animals aren't there because there is time to screw with your lack of morals - stay the hell away and leave them alone.....or die....your choice.
Robert Roberts 7 years ago
Totally one sided article. Not a word about how many park rangers have been killed by poachers over the years, not to mention how well armed the poachers are. I wonder what the Rhino population would be if those 50 had not been killed?
Rhiannon Bender 7 years ago
Don't try and kill a f*****g Rhino n ya won't get shot. There ya go. The Rhinos are defenseless against the poachers, so the park is defending them, they're only evening the fight.
Honza Micka 7 years ago
I am sorry, but I think this is as right as it can be. They are defending endangered species for b******t believes and money. People from park should be allowed to shoot after poachers. Its not a crime, its more like a self defense. I don't think that any of these people that shot a poacher should be punished. These guys are doing the right thing. Poachers would kill these creatures, there is just a few of rhinos. But too many humans. And also what do you mean how many innocent people were killed. If you are armed, and you are too close to these creatures or you are aiming at them. From that moment you are potencial danger.
Carl Schubert 7 years ago
We should adopt the same response for heroin dealers. Catch them dealing, execute them on the spot. Don't waste time and money on the courts.
Miranda Vetwrap Squisher 7 years ago
I think it's justifiable. Humans are destroying our planet and for selfish reasons. The question was how many innocent people are killed but how many innocent animals are killed? If it was natural selection that'd be one thing, but we are depleting habitats and adding more animals to the endangered list all the time. And if it's a reserve there should be no trespassing anyways.
Thad Lucken 7 years ago
the communists are taking over south africa as we speak. all their animals are going to be chopped up for bushmeat when the place goes venezuela. then the chinese will come in and start raising rhinos for horn and harvesting it to sell to asians with money to burn. but the liberals wont let us sell the horn and farm it so they africans just keep trying to steal it.
Skye Wilson 7 years ago
S**t! I actually had that same idea! You're so right! China is practically treating African like their long lost child. Heck, I read they're even going to build a Disneyland in one city. I think they need another continent to dump some of their 1.37 BILLION people and spread them out and they've chosen Africa. God help every animal on that continent!!
Load More Replies... Jazmin Sapphire 7 years ago
Innocent ???? Are you kidding me. If they know they be kill and still venture in they are not innocent.
Jenypher Martin 7 years ago
I think it is awesome!!!!!! How dare people think it is okay to shoot and kill a rhino, an endangered species!!!! An eye for an eye right here!!!! More places should be doing this and maybe just maybe people would atop playing GOD with animals lives!!!!!
Caroline Greening 7 years ago
Why does this article assume that humans have more right to life than the rhinos? That arrogance has caused extinction, and devastated this earth.
Allen Jeyarajasingam 7 years ago
I totally agree to the shoot to kill policy.When things have come to a critical stage with all other avenues exhausted, killing becomes the only option. Much as I would very much like to embark on and solely depend on both law enforcement and awareness programmes, there are times short cuts are absolutely necessary. By the way please remove the images of both Black and White Rhinos here - irrelevant in the context of Kaziranga.
Timothy Choltco 7 years ago
There are almost 7 billion humans. The death of 50, to protect 2,400 of the remaining 3,600 members of a species, is justifiable. These people are killing for profit, as only the horns are taken. The "they're feeding their families" defense is bull. These people need a "fence" to sell the contraband. This is a poaching ring of "snake oil salesmen" to make massive profits on extinction.
Carlynn Kratzer 7 years ago
"Gone too far"? Who wrote this article? A poacher? They deserve to be shot for their crimes. You play stupid games, you win stupid prizes.
C.M. Terrell 7 years ago
The writer needs to go see this personally. In the case of this park, these Rangers are vastly outnumbered and often outgunned. They aren't just shooting innocent people. I've been to the DRC where they pay a bounty per poacher killed, and they do so on the Gold standard. It's called rules of engagement, not the wild west. Signs are clearly posted, you enter here and the security force has the legal authority from the Govt. to put you down. Kind of like sneaking into Ft. Knox. You know the risk, you go for it, you get popped.
Lori Wilson 7 years ago
Anyone want to send a note to the CEO of Jimmy John's and tell him this is a GREAT place to go hunting?
Mark Gall 7 years ago
Yes, and the primary reason is China, with some other Asian countries.
Load More Replies... Maria Rohlen 6 years ago
There is no innocent poachers, kill them and kill their families. When the bill is to expensive no one want to pay.
Jose Palmieri 6 years ago
No far at all to save these animals from ourselves before extinction comes for us too in the end.
Ruth Richardson 6 years ago
The last statement is crazy. How many more innocent people should be killed? they are not innocent. They are there to kill the Rhino. They know they aren't allowed to kill them so they are breaking the law. And if they are willing to take a chance and still try to kill the Rhino then they have to know they may be killed. They are criminals when they break the law.
Lorelei Horry 7 years ago
First of all, you must have poachers in your family ( or yourself) because you are clearly a sympathizer and supporter of poaching.
Rebekah Legion Journals 7 years ago
All national parks & sanctuaries need to be granted the right for their staffs to be armed with guns to protect the animals & themselves against poachers. Other parks are still fighting for this right & as a result the innocent care takers of these almost extinct species are frequently killed by poachers as are the beautiful animals who die slow & horrifically painful deaths at the always armed hands of these evil & far from innocent poachers. If 50 poachers have been killed then the staff at this park are doing an amazing job!
Rebekah Legion Journals 7 years ago
All sanctuaries & parks need to go the way of this one. Park stuff must be able to kill poachers. Poachers are not innocent people. They are ruthless killers & need to be eradicated from society. Rhinos are precious & must be protected at all costs as They are now almost extinct due to poachers. Poachers are bad people with guns & in other parks it's the poachers who kill innocent people because those innocent park staff are denied the right to protect themselves against these poachers & are expected to protect the Rhinos & Elephants without guns. This always fails because poachers always have guns & don't care who they kill.
Sergio Steiner 7 years ago
GOOD AFTERNOON! I THINK THEY ARE CORRECT,EVEN IF EVENTUALLY HAPPENS SOME NON FAIR DEATH!!!! POACHERS MUST BE EXTERMINED!! FINALLY THE GOVERNMENT IS WORKING MORE EFFICIENTLY!! CON GRA TU LA TIONS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Swiss Chalet Manager 7 years ago
sounds like no innocent people were killed based on what was written-- why then ask the question?
Sharon Fox 7 years ago
Definitely kill the poachers! I wish all national parks and rangers did. They are maggots that should not breed and teach their children their disgusting ways.
Cheryl Fontaine 7 years ago
I think all poachers should be shot on sight. They are nothing but human vermin and need to be exterminated.
Dustin Morgan 7 years ago
The people know the risk. It's not like it's a secret. The numbers would be opposite if they didn't kill people. Rhinos would be dead. If people want to risk their lives to kill helpless animals for a few thousand bucks, shoot them down. I don't want anyone dying, human or rhino, but if this works, good.
Katy Fix-Santana 7 years ago
Humans are the reason the rhinos are gone! So logic says, eliminate the humans that kill the rhinos. Simple.
Chris Jonsson 7 years ago
People who kill Rhinos for personal gain, those who traffic their horns, those who falsely promote Rhino parts as medicinal powers, and those who buy the end products from Rhinos' lives, deserve to get what they dealt their victims.
Grim Reaper NZ 7 years ago
there is no such thing as innocent people if they are poachers, i support the shoot on sight that this park has
Lori Dennis 7 years ago
I'm glad these people care about their animals. Poaching needs to stop!!!!!
Virginia Anziani 7 years ago
It's not too far. It's hard to hear, and I'm not advocating shooting people just "because." But this gets the word out that the poaching will not be tolerated. THAT's what it's come to. Something must be done to save the rhinos and other animals. The poachers are willing to do it for the money---perhaps they'll decide now the price is too high.
Michele Salzberg 7 years ago
The Rhino's are living their lives in peace, they are not attacking anyone, they are not seeking anyone out, heck they are not playing hide and seek teasing the poachers. So yes, the guards are doing their job, guarding the rhino's in their care, good for them, praise even for them.
Cathy McGeary 7 years ago
I think this is awesome and wish more National Parks would implement a similar practice. Remember that zoo in France not too long ago, where one of their rhinos was shot and killed and it's horn sawed off? Pity they didn't have a couple of these park guards on hand. If you're walking into a national reserve park where animals are protected and you're carrying a gun ... I'd shoot you first and ask questions later. Or maybe just skip the questions and double tap you.
Jim Ouchida 7 years ago
There's not a lot of innocent people running around the jungle with it poison spear or rifle come on who are you fooling those people are killing innocent animals quit being a pussy
Alan Lowry 7 years ago
This is NOT WRONG! Humans have the brain and know the consequences. Therefore, you play ... you pay. I for one am very glad to see the senseless, superstitious killings of animals (not for food) is being dealt with in such a forthright and hard line manner. I say Good for You Kaziranga National Park! Your Park.... Your Rules !
Bruce Locke 7 years ago
Shoot them all. And while you're at it, shoot those pencil dicked Chinese men that are driving the market for rhino horn and elephant tusk. We all know that's why these animals are being slaughtered.
William Macdonald 7 years ago
It is absolutely about time that we start protecting our endangered species. I commend the Kaziranga National Park for their commitment and dedication to keeping these animals safe and protected. As far as the sub-human poachers go, they know well beforehand that these Rhinos are protected and if they chose to break the law and attempt to murder these majestic animals than they get what they deserve.
Anna Malinowski 7 years ago
Are things gone too far? Definitely not. 50 subhumans out of a population of over 7,5 billion is a god deal to save these magnificent animals. Let's hope this solution will be implemented other places as well.
Becky Bauer 7 years ago
I do not find shooting poachers or suspected poachers on sight as terrible, particularly since terrorists groups such as Boko Haram, ISIS, etc. fund their activities through poaching. Poaching has become a war...a war to save many species as well as human lives. The good guys won't win by playing nice. One doesn't take a slingshot to a fire fight. Very often, particularly in Africa, poachers have more advanced weapons and better transportation than official game rangers, so I have no problem with shooting first in this case. And since word is out that being shot is what can happen, I doubt innocent locals go wandering about the rhino preserve.
Brenda Carman 7 years ago
Poachers don't care how many rhinos are killed so shooting the poachers seems fair to me they know the risk .
Joanne Paoli Bayne 7 years ago
I think it's fine. You know it's illegal, if you're stupid enough to go in a National Park after an endangered species, you get what you deserve.
Kay Martin 7 years ago
Killing is too good for these insensitive greedy bastards. They should be de-horned as well....
Carole Martine 7 years ago
Sounds good to me. Poaching is illegal and inhumane. Poachers deserve what they get.
Sheena Greaves 7 years ago
they where going ti kill an innocent animal for its tusks or horn .. so as far as I'm concerned kill all poachers
Sheena Greaves 7 years ago
they kill innocent animals for their horns and tusks ... so as far as I'm concerned kill all poachers
Bryan Elliott 7 years ago
"Gone too far", my a*s. If there are still poachers showing up, they've not gone far enough. "Innocent people", my a*s. You don't show up on national park land with a rifle just to observe.
Bryan Elliott 7 years ago
Also - and I know this from poachers in the Congo - the rangers are as likely to be gunned down for being in the way as the Rhinos are to be killed for their horns. So call it self- and animal-defense.
Load More Replies... Bryan Elliott 7 years ago
Zero. You're not on a national park with a weapon to observe. Gone too far, my a*s.
Vic Cherikoff 7 years ago
Maybe we should also allow the idiots with small penises to be shot when they try to buy rhino horn. We need to clean up the shallow end of the gene pool.
Mike McCullough 7 years ago
Are you nuts? These is the best thing I've heard to control poachers! You should have to get a permit though :0
Shan Kissdani 7 years ago
If you saw how the poachers kill wild animals for their body parts and cut those parts out slowly even as the animal lay dying in pain, you would want to skin the poachers alive, not just shoot them dead.
Debby Morris 7 years ago
Take every last poacher out. Please do. Poachers are scum and should be shot. Repeatedly.
Kayla Levine 7 years ago
If the number of people killed is greater than the number of rhinos killed I guess the rangers must be doing a good job.
Vic Cherikoff 7 years ago
This should be the norm. I fully condone shooting idiot poachers and the Government officials that allow them to exist.
Tala Chedaka 7 years ago
There may have been more people killed than Rhinos, but how many Rhinos would these people have killed? They mention how many innocent people have been killed, but what about the innocent Rhinos?
Matthew Stevens 7 years ago
If you are holding a gun on a National Park reserve, you get what you deserve!
Donnie Symes 7 years ago
Who cares about these idiots, I sure as hell don’t. It’s called DECISION making. People make a bad decision to kill animals which they know is illegal and they are SHOT. Now the same person makes the decision to NOT kill these animals and the person lives happily ever after and so does the animal, DAAAAAAAA it’s not rocket science. As far as I’m concerned 50 dead is a good start.
Cydney Massard 7 years ago
as someone that has always prefered the company of animals, I approve of this, let the punishing begin, now for America to protect wolves, but like my country is gonna do s**t
Kristin Mattson 7 years ago
I hope the author of this article can read this, youre a dumb b***h. Theyre not innocent, poaching is illegal and also they deserve to die for killing innocent rhinos.
Kristin Mattson 7 years ago
I hope the author of this article can see this. Youre a dumb b***h. Innocent people? Theyre not innocent, poaching is illegal and cruel. They deserve to die for killing innocent rhinos.
Lynn Kirby 7 years ago
Fully agree.. Why should a poacher's life be more important than the rhino!
Ariel Coker 7 years ago
Well you aren't exactly "innocent" if you are breaking and entering with intent to kill
Kaycie Zubowski 7 years ago
Oh, please with the namby pamby nonsense. There is ZERO reason for random people to be inside this park. Regular people are not allowed to roam it freely. The ONLY reason to sneak in is to poach, and "innocent people" go in with a guide and permission. If more parks operated this way it would end the problem of poaching.
Bridget Perrin 7 years ago
The park has clear signage warning people not approach and that you will be shot - in the protected areas. So I'm assuming if you're wandering on foot amongst the rhinos and the guards, in all likelihood carrying a weapon, then you're a poacher!!!! And yes. There are that many trying to get their hands on our rhinos - hundreds of these monsters. This reporter writing this article is the reason why our Rhinos will one day be extinct. Because any hard action like poisoning horns or shooting poachers is frowned upon and there's a backlash stopping progress to save this animal.
Scott Kenward-Miller 7 years ago
Good on them. More inncoent animals die every day than 'so called innocent poachers'.
dayv 7 years ago
I don't care if poachers die (let them that take the sword perish by the sword) but I fear this may never end until the root cause (poverty) is addressed. 6k may very well be enough to convince people to potentially throw their life away. I wish their economy could be strong enough to support regular jobs for would-be poachers.
Raymond Knoll 7 years ago
Personally, I really want to be a ranger in this park. Poachers be on alert, be prepared for the consequences of your crimes.
Alan Kingswood 7 years ago
F**k the poachers!!!!!!!!! How can you be on there side... What would you propose letting them off and letting them come back to try again.... Kill all the poachers!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Jason Van Camp 7 years ago
Innocent people don't carry guns to a protected reservation. Sounds like instant karma to me.
Ravan Damien 7 years ago
I don't think they've gone too far. I think other parks need to allow the same actions. All poachers should be shot.
Trina Hill 7 years ago
Not a single one of those f*cking poachers were 'innocent', but the poor Rhinos are! So no, it hasn't gone too far!! They went in knowing the consequences.. they got what they deserved. I hope they keep up the good work. Maybe other places will follow their example.
Perla Aguilera 7 years ago
"Innocent people"?? Oh, god---that's disgusting! If the people that get away with the mass murder of entire species for personal profit are 'innocent', then so are those rangers. In fact, they're not just innocent under that logic; they're freaking HEROES doing whatever is necessary to protect innocent life that can't protect itself. The Creator of Life itself would revere those guys.
Bill Fikes Jr 7 years ago
They should spare a few just long enough to get them to tell who they are selling the horn to, then go kill him too.
Nathan Fisher 7 years ago
Completely not too far. Go for it. If this is what it takes to keep the animals from dying out, I am all for it. There's plenty enough humans on this planet anyway.
Steve Jakobs 7 years ago
Actually, I don't think they go far enough..I think the poachers entire families should be killed to send a very harsh message to future poachers...
Steve Yakoban 7 years ago
HOORAY!!! Happy to fund your bullets. So they kill even 500 or 5000 humans that are garbage destroying this world. SO?
Kim Hessel 7 years ago
Hmm, let innocent Rhinos be killed, or kill murderous humans in defense of those who cannot defend themselves? Kill the murders, I say. Because let's call poachers what they are - killers.
Kelly Starrk 7 years ago
Nobody cares if you kill a poacher Also...decent humans won't be sitting alongside a shooting poacher, so just cause you didn't pull a trigger doesn't make you guilty
Bill Petreszyn 7 years ago
Sounds like they need to hire more Rangers and more parks should adopt this Policy!
Rachel Black 7 years ago
Innocent people? No person is ever innocent. Furthermore a person would have NO reason to be out there unless they were planning on hunting those poor animals. I am all in support of them being shot before they can kill the rhinos. Maybe it will keep the poachers in check. I think they need more of this kind of justice, because lets face it, the law is corrupt and cannot protect these animals.
Sean Tyler 7 years ago
It is entirely justified. Rhinos are critically endangered. People, not so much.
Allison Hanson 7 years ago
Could I join? Innocence does not include intention of taking another life.. that's evil.
Marium Nizami 7 years ago
I have dogs and if someone tries to hurt my babies, that's how far I can go.. Why do humans get the right to kill everything that's not human??? If they wanted to learn a lesson, they would've stopped trying to kill the rhinos when the park authorities shot the first few poachers..
Rahul Sharma 7 years ago
Oh, those animals are/were not innocent too. Well Innocent people won't found themselves killing Rhinos.
Gabby Pantaloni 7 years ago
Okay, it's one thing to ask if this is morally okay, but did you seriously refer to poachers as "innocent people"? I won't talk about the morality involved in this conservation effort, but to call those poachers "innocent" is a slap in the face to the thousands upon thousands of lost rhino and elephant lives. They are not innocent. They are criminals that deserve punishment. Should that punishment be death? I can't say. But they are far from "innocent."
Elena Alexandra Cojocaru 7 years ago
"And how many innocent people were killed?" -none, because they were guilty of attempted poaching.
Ronda Dalton 7 years ago
The question was: Has the park gone to far by shooting and killing poachers (humans)? The answer is: NO they haven't. I believe that this may be the only way we have a chance to save these and other endangered species. We've read that poachers have even broken into zoo in other countries and have killed rhinos for their horns. You better believe that they are also killing anyone that gets in their way. Until we can find a way to stop the demand for this then I have no qualms with these scumbags being shot on sight. They have no problem taking other lives then we should have no problem taking theirs. I also firmly believe that anyone that solicits any part of an endangered animal they get a minimum of 100 years in jail and forfeit any and all financial possessions. That any future monies they may earn go directly to helping save other endangered species. If they have no money and are kept in poverty then there won't be any incentive for poachers to go kill these endangered animals.
Aly Bee 7 years ago
Poachers do illegal things knowingly. It's most definitely NOT too far to take appropriate action. If approved and appropriate actions are taken and it results in the death of a poacher, whose fault is that? If you're trying to insinuate that human life is paramount to biodiversity, PLEASE take an ecology course or just generally update yourself on the importance of ecosystems.
Cindy Cowan 7 years ago
Killing poachers works for me. These animals need to be protected. I don't have a single problem with it.
Aja Baliker 7 years ago
Keep on shooting. I applaud them for killing poachers. Why is a rhinos life worth any less than the scum that is hunting them?
Lucia Villa 7 years ago
I totally agree with this! If we "think" we have the right to kill a defenseless animal then, we might as well treat those people like animals themselves. I'm sure the park rules are WELL KNOWN.... people go and try to kill them at their own risk. Well too bad!
D name 7 years ago
National park’s workers can kill a POACHER and get away with impunity in the same way you don't get arrested for cleaning s**t off a toilet. Is the author so ignorant as to value the life of human scum that is threatening an endangered species? I am overjoyed to hear there are some people willing to stand up and protect mother nature from the cancer that humanity has become.
Sam Camenetti 7 years ago
Since poachers want to cut off these majestic animals horn, maybe they should catch these poachers and cut off there arms.
Carole Menninger 7 years ago
No sympathy at all for these "innocent" people killed! They knew the risks. How about more sympathy for a species who because of poaching, trophy hunting is now listed as endangered? ALL my sympathy goes toward this animal. Period!
Carole Menninger 7 years ago
Those killed knew the risks. I do not have one OUNCE of sympathy for them. You keep asking about how many innocent people, well, buddy, how about asking "how many innocent rhinos have died"? Enough to make them endangered and close to extinction, THAT is how many.
Patricia Lyons 7 years ago
They are not going too far. I don't care if they are poaching rhinos or rabbits they are poachers and they're not doing it to get food to put on the table. They know the risks when they do it.
Ryan Harrison 7 years ago
I say good job on killing the poachers keep it up and try to not have any innocent casualties all we can hope for the cost is justified for the survival of the rhinos
Bridget Pitt 7 years ago
The rhinos in Africa are desperately threatened. Maybe this is necessary to stop poaching, but more should also be done to those who are trafficking in rhino horn
Pamela Smith 7 years ago
Must everyone carry a rifle? They wouldn't be mistaken for a poacher then.
Michael Ki 7 years ago
You're naive if you believe that any of those 50 killed were not poachers.
Ian LukeMitchell 7 years ago
Another point to make on these poachers? They are not only poaching to steal tusks and horns for medicinal value. These animals are being butchered to satisfy rich people who want them on their walls as a status symbol.
Mary Russell 7 years ago
kill all those human that try to kill such beautiful creatures , they deserve it if they come looking to take only the horns. I am happy to know that so many rhinos are being so well protected . to all you humans with bleeding hearts for those poachers killed. remember this they are bad evil people and they have this coming and they will burn for their sins.
Matt Garretson-Pugh 7 years ago
Too far? Absolutely not. This is 100% what needs to happen. Murder the murderers.
Jeremy Mutz 7 years ago
This isn't too far. Don't poach. "They need to feed their family ". So does everyone else, so pick something else. Kill more poachers.
Kristiana Nelson 7 years ago
If there are still people who think their erections are more important than rhinos, then this method has not gone too far. The rhino horn isn't a miracle cure for anything. It's value as such is evidence of human stupidity and greed.
Jamie Mayfield 7 years ago
How can it be justified? Easy, there are over 7 billion humans in the world, and there are only around 3,300 of them. We can stand to lose a few horrible humans for the sake of an entire species. Why do so many think that human lives are so damn precious? We are everywhere and we multiply like f*****g rabbits, I have no problem with a few of us being shot for being a******s.
Debbie Current 7 years ago
I have no problem with them shooting poachers. There is an easy way to be safe. Stay off the land and leave the rhinos alone. They should do this more often.
moti kadosh 7 years ago
Are you f*****g stupid? People try to kill anaimls are not innocent in any way. F**k all the poachers. Hope they rot in hall and every one of them kill the sooner the better
Wo Wen Tan 7 years ago
Pretty sample no buyer no killer. If people still buy it. No matter how hard you try you can't stop the killing.
Cyndi Hill 7 years ago
There is NO doubt in my mind... if I was a caretaker of those rhinos and someone, anyone, tried to harm them... I'd shoot them dead in a heartbeat.
Cyndi Hill 7 years ago
There is NO doubt in my mind... If I was taking care of and protecting those rhinos and someone, anyone, tried to harm them... I would shoot them dead without hesitation.
Karen Homan 7 years ago
Because in Africa things like this http://www.timeslive.co.za/local/2017/02/22/Staff-assaulted-and-rhino-slaughtered-in-brutal-animal-orphanage-attack1 happens - poachers deserve everything bad that could ever happen to them
Sankalp Sthanapati 7 years ago
Excellent work by the government I would say. When these so called innocent people go inside a protected area with guns and even after given a warning to comply don't listen they deserve to be killed. We have destroyed our nature a lot. About time we take drastic steps.
Alexander Pintor 7 years ago
Absolutely f**k em! They think killing an animal for game is worth money. Then have em eat a d**k!
Vikrant Singh 7 years ago
Absolutely perfect, finally an article with some marbles in it. I hope this is the beginning.We humans deserve it, the worst of all species.
Nicholas Hesser 7 years ago
Did they try at least using their brains to find a logical solution instead of just killing them? you know you can arrest people right? you don't have to jump straight to murder.
Leke Sokoli 7 years ago
P.s. and as for the fact that more humans died from this than rhinos being hunted IS SO F*****G STUPID TO BRING UP. NO S**T. IF I'M KILLING THE KILLERS THERE WONT BE ANY MORE MURDERS YOU F*****G EMPTY HEADED ENTITLED "online reporters/online article writer/online journalists" F***S.
Leke Sokoli 7 years ago
Case dismissed. F**k journalism, f**k these b******t individually opinionated articles. Give me news, real and straight to the point news. That's the point of reporting. I didn't come to read your opinion.
Leke Sokoli 7 years ago
Now i don't wanna hear any b******t like "but what if the rhino tried to kill someone waaawaaa" that means the lawfully protected human has the right to defend oneself or a good fellow human/rhino can help them out.
Norman van Druten 7 years ago
Not sure if this is the same conservation place, this picture was very moving and i take my hat off to these people who do this! Rhino-Orph...15b50a.jpg
Hemant Kawale 7 years ago
The first picture seems to be of an African Rhino not the Single horned Rhinos found in the Kaziranga park.
Koko Sempai 7 years ago
I'm sure this is really hard for the staff members to do this but I also think it's the right thing to do.
Thalia Perez 7 years ago
How does one respond to this? Idk I feel like how else can you stop poachers? They don't care if an animal is endangered they kill so if they are willing to kill for profit they why not kill to protect another life? Question is why don't other parks do it like for th elephants and lions, etc..
Florian Joly-Sinclair 7 years ago
Too far ?! Really ? Hahahah, keep going. Never stop shooting poachers. I hope to join in someday.
Thee DivaDangerous 7 years ago
Not too far. Poachers are the lowest scumbags on the planet. If making poaching a capital crime is what it takes, so be it.
Gail Nolten 7 years ago
In my book lucky to be just dead, they deserve a more lingering brutal a suffering before being killer!!! Keep up the good work, whatever it takes to save these amazing animals.
Corinne McLuckie 7 years ago
When they put up the numbers of people killed they should put it up with the percentage of theverything whole world's population that equals to, then do the same for rhinos. 50 people really doesn't seem like too many to me.
Edward Smith 7 years ago
Instant justice, you shoot the rhino I shoot you! Now you know the risk!
Tyler Wenning 7 years ago
Hell no isn't too far. I just hope this story is real and they're actually killing poachers. Theyre not innocent people they deserve to be killed
Karenza T. Wall 7 years ago
i think that the death sentence for murderers of innocent beings is eminently just. now we need to decide what to do with the peoplke who use these murdered creatures for selfish and greedy purposes. i think this approach needs to be taken with murderers of tigers, orangutan and other endangered creatures. and then we could go on to sentence the corporations who destroy habitat for greed, and contribute to declining habitat for plants and creatures. even more important is education programs for all humans living so we can understand the corruption of the system that contributes to these extinctions. the best reason for this approach is the rise in rhinoceros populations in the park.
Michael Yonts 7 years ago
They get shot because they are carrying machine guns while 'harvesting' the horns off of poached animals (rather than going to jail). If your a poacher and don't want to get shot, choose a different profession.
Leotard Love 7 years ago
Other National Parks, around the world, should observe this example, and follow. Poachers are just POS who deserve to die!
Rebecca Palmer 7 years ago
If someone were to catch a poacher in the act of killing a rhino for its horn, do you really think he would let you live? There is a lot at stake for them. If they got caught, they don't get their horn. They don't get the money for that horn. They get imprisoned, and possibly even killed for their crime. And that was before the ones protecting the rhinos could just shoot them for it.
Karen Coleman 7 years ago
I don't think they have taken it too far. If your just out looking no need to carry a gun that will kill a rhino or elephant only way to stop poachers is to kill is caught with a gun
Licenciada Sifuentes 7 years ago
Sorry to say this but fair warning. If they know they can be killed and still try to do it its on them really.
Kirsty whitby 7 years ago
I think every national park in which ever country should have the right to shoot poachers (men or woman). it's not to far at all, people go and shoot beautiful, innocent and some nearly extinct animals just for fun and it's disgusting. Most are killed just so the poachers can take a picture with their kill and other are killed for their skin or horns (not for their meat) so yes, if you go poaching, the national park guards should have the right to protect the animals......
William Wetmore 7 years ago
To me it is justifiable. these majestic animals are gravely threatened and to save their species mortal forc must be used for 2 reasons it protects the animals and sends a message to the other horn poachers to lay off.
William Wetmore 7 years ago
this is justifiable do not judge other people by your standards to save the rhinos lethal force must be used
Colttan Beasley 7 years ago
Shouldn't be poaching then. Poaching to feed your family and poaching for greed are completely different. If they get caught, they're only going to do it again and be smart enough to not get caught again. If you have so little value for life that you want to murder any living thing just to butcher it for a couple parts, then you put yourself to face whatever consequences follow.
Raul Noriega 7 years ago
this is awesome. they need more intense approaches like this to help save soo many of our endangered buddies. Congrats to them for making this decision. they want to kill the rhinos so we kill you what a great trade :)
Lorenzo Kane 7 years ago
Seriously? Too far? You know what I'm sorry. I'm just going to say it... This world becoming INFESTED with mentally weak people. You can call it compassion...whatever good willed word you want to choose to justify it...but you're just being weak. Not that compassion is weakness...but when it gets in the way of the greater good... Complex problems have complex solutions. And some times to get what you want...you have to get your hands dirty. You can have all the good intentions in the world...but evil doesn't play by your rules. Dirty problems don't have clean solutions. So what do you prefer? Rhino extinction? Or save the life of evil men...and POSSIBLY a dumb few who ventured into park grounds KNOWING they've killed 50 people? To the author...get over yourself...or go there and help.
Candace Macedo 7 years ago
You shouldn't put yourself in a questionable position... I approve of this approach! A human life that doesn't care for animals doesn't deserve to be "respected" enough to be given a trail!
Dustin Aliano 7 years ago
Hell yeah! Shoot em...bury em and they can finally be useful to our environment by providing the plants with nutrients. We need to go so far past this that no amount of money will make someone even think about poaching...then we need to gather all the horns and ivory that have been poached to be used as bait for those trying to buy it so we can arrest them or kill them too
Sarmite Kraukle 7 years ago
It is great to know, that somewhere people care for animals. Poachers know, what they can expect, so they are risking on they own will. Two kind of people should be killed without remorse - child abusers and animal abusers.
Carlos de vera 7 years ago
compared to rhinos population humans are much bigger, killing a few won't tip the balance of the scale.
Rita Henson 7 years ago
When the innocent were killed, did they have cameras or rifles in their hands?
Bobby Albee 7 years ago
Elizabeth, if the killing bothers you then don't hunt rhinos. Your sympathy for poachers sickens me. Maybe you should find another job.
Attiya Charrington 7 years ago
I am pretty sure you aren't allowed to be considered an "innocent person" when you trying to kill an already endangered species..
Kenneth Housden 7 years ago
I'm Ok with this in fact I think it's brilliant that they are taking real steps keep Rhinos from becoming trophies or ground into Asian Viagra..
Ariel Edwards 7 years ago
I don't know bout all over the U.S but I know where I live it is legal to shoot someone trespassing as long as they are given warning (Ex: Signs) these poachers are trespassing I have no sympathy.
Michelle Bruce 7 years ago
Humans know right from wrong. Killing innocent animals for profit/greed isn't right. I think this park is fabulous for doing what it takes to save the species for future generations to hopefully enjoy. This isn't too far; poaching in a park/sanctuary is too far!
Jamie Merchant 7 years ago
too far... psh its not to far poachers dont deserve to live they are past being human they have turned into greedy animals kudos to this park
Patricia Soderstrom 7 years ago
Yes they should be shot! They know that the guards have the ok to shoot to kill. Maybe someday we will have poacher hunting.
Jessica Holden-Cook 7 years ago
110% Justified. If they get shot murdering and animal just for its horn then I would call that KARMA!!
Joy Bohannon 7 years ago
Add to the list the sick Dolphin, Whale, Seal and Elephant killers and I'm in, I wouldn't have a problem coming to help out if needed.
Andrea Sperling 7 years ago
Not so innocent if they're murdering innocent animals. (Hope this story is true.)
Gibran Leon 7 years ago
Then leave the damn Rhinos alone. It's not that difficult to understand. If you come in armed to a store, don't be surprised if you are shot at or killed. If you go out and look to KILL something else to steal their property, then well......
Eldar Eddy 7 years ago
People are not innocent. Children are. But child won't go into hunt for any animal, stupid people will so they deserve to be killed to save animals. Kill as many you like 7 billion people on this Earth and every day less and less animals and some species. So get rid of some amount of humans and animals will have more chances on this planet! Kill Ignorant Humans save lives! Hoooray! :)
Jen C 7 years ago
"The question is, could this kind of punishment ever be justified?And how many innocent people were killed?" They aren't innocent. They attempted to kill off an endangered species, one by one. Let's be clear, I'm not putting a single animal above a human life, I am putting an entire species is greater than one individual. May it be a collected group of individuals or an actual group of people with a common goal, I still believe an entire species is greater than them.
Linda Fundytus 7 years ago
They have not gone too far and I doubt if innocent people are being killed. They should have started this years ago. You cannot embark on a project like this and expect a positive result without sacrificing something-poachers in this case.
Vicki Adams 7 years ago
I'm ok with it. If someone comes in my house, and threatens my safety I can legally shoot to kill. Since rhinos don't have guns, someone needs to protect them. And to be honest, if I thought someone was going to, or had, harmed by dog or cat, they better be damn worried.
Akshara Khanduri 7 years ago
This is the best deterrent in many of the crimes that run rampant in our country. Proud of them for taking this step. STOP with the negative publicity
Dylon Bland-Rotchford 7 years ago
These poachers understand the risk that they are taking. If they get caught, and I hope they do, they deserve to be shot.
Sameer Chakraborthy 7 years ago
WTF, so terrorists in Kashmir are being hit by pellets and water but poachers are being shot dead? This is ridiculous. Effective protection of the rhinos needn't have to involve shooting people. Protect the park, erect electric fences and guard the park stringently, but shooting people is uncalled for.
Alok Tiwari 7 years ago
The article should also talk about how many people, including national park guards, that poachers have killed. Poaching gangs in Kaziranga are heavily armed and dangerous. They wouldn't bat an eyelid before mowing down park rangers. This aggreesive approach is only one that works there..
Steve Jakobs 7 years ago
Innocent people?? Surely you jest? They are attempting murder on an innocent...They parkers are doing what they have to do to protect them....I love this...I wish this happened everywhere.
Maria Nineonine 7 years ago
Wait innocent people? They are poachers how are they innocent? They are killing endangered animals for money and are doing it legally...f**k them
Becky Soto 7 years ago
I think sympathy for the poachers runs a little thin in this crowd. I stand with the park on this one. Really, how many 'innocent' people are just wandering around the bush close to Rhino herds with guns and machetes? When the rangers take down a kid that is minding his own business eating skittles, then it's time to worry. I am assuming of course that these shootings and evidence are reviewed by some sort of oversight committee? No real details about the whole process were given.
Michael Garcia 7 years ago
Keep up the good work and put their heads on a mounted plack especially the a*s hole who wrote this post!
Carla Villanueva 7 years ago
How are they called innoscent, when they are after killing these rhinos.
Damon Anstee 7 years ago
A post I submittedhas failed I said good f**k the poachers sadly for the socioeconomic unfortunate in africa ithat poach in this case the rhinoceros are more important to earth and biodiversity than they are its the few that ruin earth for the many eradecate the few who are criminals against earth and their own species and we can find earthtopia for all human beings to unstunt our evolutionary toxic hiccup and heal the world to make it a better place this is the real world war three so wake up all of the government's of the world prioritise and fight like ak life on earth depends on it because it most surely does
Jaili Nicolaou 7 years ago
OKAY BORED PANDA - YOU HAVE TAKEN THIS TOO FAR. ID SUGGEST YOU REMOVE THIS OPINIONATED PUBLICATION.
Susan Sado 7 years ago
Good for them. More of the same should be done . The word is out, keep your guns out of our park. Keep up the good work! !!!!
Damon Anstee 7 years ago
PS I haxe two suggestions for the protectors of the rhinoceros one is a pole like a power pole with a solar charging station and drone landing platform atop with infared secuity cameras with motion sensors for monitoring the station and its surround and a protective cage that opens for landings and departures and a battery swapper with enough batteries to last throughout the night even on bleak days for an advanced millitary grade drone that is bullet resistant and able to change between some colours to blend with its backgrounds or have different colors for different tasks that can either tranquilize shoot or track offenders then chip.and track all the rhinoceros to create a random 24 /7 /365 monitoring regime and as an added feature a 4 wheel drive remote amphibious vehichle that can be dropped by the drone for under canopy tracking etc number two we have rhinoceros at Australia Zoo so ive us a couple of hundred and I think thy will be safe here to safeguard and bolster their numbers
Damon Anstee 7 years ago
Bloody awesome theyhave my sympathy to a degree due to their reasons usually socioeconomic in natur some for greed but that is a number greater than one that has been saved we humans number in the billions and the rhinoceros are well on there way to zero
Les Stuart 7 years ago
B******t! Id rather see their arms and legs cut off and left on the plains to be eaten. They deserve the worst torture possible. If you seek to take another's life you should expect your own to be forfeit as well. Theyre not goig far enough. The poachers should be happy theyre only getting shot.
Probir Bosé 7 years ago
Frankly, its all good. We have over 1.252 billion people and only 2,290 rhinos left! You do the math!
Probir Bosé 7 years ago
WTF! Only 50??? Are they sleeping on the job?? There needs to be more accountability - delay promotions and/or forfeit annual increments every time the miss or only maim a poacher! My taxes should not be wasted on useless c**ts! ┌∩┐(◣_◢)┌∩┐Oh! btw, welcome to India! :D
Probir Bosé 7 years ago
WTF! Only 50??? Are they sleeping on the job?? There needs to be more accountability - delay promotions and/or forfeit annual increments every time the miss or only maim a poacher! My taxes should not be wasted on useless c**ts! ┌∩┐(◣_◢)┌∩┐
Johan Jansen 7 years ago
Who cares? Why do you even ask the Question of how many people were killed? I love the idea and it should be implemented world wide... just wish the people right down the list from poacher to consumer could suffer the same faith
Katinka Min 7 years ago
Clearly, Bored Panda is full of vegetarians. At least I hope all those commentators who scream 'Shoot the poachers' are vegetarian because otherwise they'd be the biggest hypocrites ever.
Hans J. Henckert 7 years ago
And the pest infection for the poaching exclusively rests in CHINA and secondly VIETNAM.
StripeyPants 7 years ago
Kill 'em all and let God sort them out. Humans are the most dangerous animal on the planet.
Melina Pothier 7 years ago
Way too far. Couldn't they injure the person? Do they have to kill them? Killing them means they have sealed their fate, perhaps the person could've changed at some point. People playing god and taking human lives is never ok.
Christa Martin 7 years ago
"Elizabeth" do you even live in India or Africa? Your article is poorly-written and littered with unqualified opinion. Bad form if you intend on being taken seriously.
Apple Arawik 7 years ago
Endangered species are protected, and the laws are in place for poachers, poachers dont just kill rhino's or whatever, they will kill anyone who tries to get in there way. Poachers, pirates theyre the same, motivated by money and greed, not survival. Opium and poppy plantations do the same, and the death count is probably equivalent to the world population.
Mary Daniels 7 years ago
Somebody has to protect these animals. They can't defend themselves against this. I don't think it's going too far either.
Elaine Elder 7 years ago
The dumb ones in this scenario are the idiots at the end of this stupid supply line. They want the horn of a rhino to cure their sex life. It's just keratin. So they are paying a fortune for hair that's stuck together.
Eloy Ramirez 7 years ago
Good I'm glad . Too many species have gone extinct and will never be brought back just because people are full of greed . I approve !
Lillith Pandora 7 years ago
This is exactly the right guy model for protecting endangered species. All poachers deserve to die
Shan Kissdani 7 years ago
I believe this kind of operation--poaching that is--is done by a syndicate. They hire poor locals who are desperate for money to do the poaching. The syndicate provides the guns and the locals risk their lives. It is always sad to see how rich syndicate bosses profit at the cost of the lives of the local people. The governments of the world must target the syndicates. They are the real beneficiary of all poaching, prostitution, gambling, robbery, and other organised crimes. These syndicates become so rich and powerful that they can but governments and start to run legit businesses with their blood money. We are supporting them even without knowing it.
Glen Burks 7 years ago
Hell yes! The Rhinos can defend themselves against bullets! Poachers know that the Wardens shoot to kill, their choice. If I were a young man I'd go to Africa in a minute to protect all the magnificent beast, that these low life prey on. I pray for the wardens, they get killed too!
Irene Walton 7 years ago
Love this post, glad they're doing this, but they need to go after the people that want the horns too somehow. I wish there was a way
Jessica Hepler 7 years ago
Honestly good riddance maby putting the fear of death into poachers is what is needed to finally make it stop
Alden Fouraker 7 years ago
I don't think it's too far at all. I think it's one of the few places in the world that is taking crimes against animals seriously and doing something to stop it. Good work!!!!
Lee Castro 7 years ago
Absolutely! I'm in favor of providing any country that wishes to protect Rhinos or any other species in these parks with Drone Capabilities!
Harrison Mortimer 7 years ago
I don't know what's worse, that poachers still exist or that this author sounds incredibly biased towards them. Why is the life of an endangered and innocent animal more valuable then that of a criminal scumbag whose species are over populated.
Phyl O Butoyi 7 years ago
Very justified, I think, rape, armed robbery, pedophilia and poaching should be automatic death sentences.
Clayton Anderson 7 years ago
Torn on this one. But finally come down on the side of Rhino's. There are billions of us on the planet. Maybe some 10,000 rhinos at best? Our gain has been their demise. I don't want to see people get killed, but we are the main contributors to this situation. We need to elevate our paradigm. Please, don't kill rhinos.
Eugene Kutsin 7 years ago
all sounds good ... except that the real animal killers are the people who buy it. the guy who wants the horns, will keep paying one poacher after another to get what he wants. and poor fellas wouldn't even bother themselves with question what's more valuable a rhino or his way out of poverty. the question is what is a fair price to outweigh danger of being killed. follow buyers. poachers and all the intermediates got to be used to bring buyers to justice
Luke Irey 7 years ago
Shut the hell up, you ignorant fool. There are 7.5 billion humans & we are slowly destroying everything that inhabits this planet. Saying that killing 50 poachers is "going to far" is so ridiculously ignorant to how many of these animals have been killed for 1 SMALL PART OF THEIR MASSIVE BODIES. If you agree with this clearly idiotic, uninformed author, you should really go attempt to poach one of these rhino's so you can understand just how passionate people are about trying to protect that which we have come so close to destroying. Poachers deserve to be shot, frankly it's a light punishment considering you can survive a bullet in a non-vital area.
Andre Erasmus 7 years ago
There ain't no such thing as 'innocent' (armed?) people wandering around in a game park.
Diane Peace 7 years ago
If that's what it takes to keep animals safe then so be it---I have NO problem with this---
Urfan Eddie 7 years ago
What alternative would you propose. Many national parks in other countries fail to protect their animals because the rules of engagement for enforcement are so restrictive that attempts to prevent poaching are more deadly for the officers than the poachers. Poaching gangs are organized crime, no different than drug cartels on this side of the world, and they are willing to use deadly force to protect their illegal business, so enforcement has no choice but to respond in kind.
Jordan Dubie 7 years ago
This is completely fine. Ive never been at ease with the loss of a human life, but this is completely acceptable. I approve even.
John Halverson 7 years ago
HAHAHA! They are never gonna get me! Hahaha! Because I am not going to poach the rhinos. Get it? Apparently the poachers didn't.
Darren Parsnips 7 years ago
All this story has made me do is want to become a warden there and shoot more poachers. I approve of summary execution without trial for these scum.
Adrian Smalley 7 years ago
Article says all the people shot were going after rhino horns then asks how many innocent people were shot?. Get it straight, do the research. As long as they aren't shooting people who visit the park (if they even alow tourists) then I don't think this is too far.
Keri Still 7 years ago
I totally am behind killing poachers. They don't deserve to live and breath if they are willing to take that right away from another. Shoot away. Those people are no loss to our world.
Inzane_sniper 7 years ago
Those poachers kill animals only for goods... Why killing a poacher would be "too far" ... This must send them the message!
Panos Alexakos 7 years ago
They are not "innocent" people. They are criminals that threaten a endangered life form. Wipe them out.
Shannon O'Hare 7 years ago
How can you say in one sentence that all of these people (those killed) were going after the rhino's horns, then question how many innocent folk were killed? If they were definately poachers going after the rhino's for their horns, then there were categorically no innocent people killed. I am a human being and I believe this is the correct course of action. Everything else has been tried with nil effect and these animals need actual protection.
Larisa Brenière-Levskaya 7 years ago
Très bien!!!! Il faut faire avec les "gens" (pour ils ne sont pas de gens mais des braconniers) la même chose ce qu'ils font avec des animaux. Je déteste leur impunité. Ils ne comprennent pas autrement. Ils tuent. On leur dit de ne pas le faire. Et ça continue. Je trouve si il faut les tuer pour qu'ils comprennent je soutiens complètement !!! De quels gens innocents vous parlez? Pourquoi les innocents seront tuer? Je pense pas d'être tuer là bas si je viens juste regarder la nature sans armes, sans danger. Ça me nerve votre protection des hommes. Ces hommes là ne pensent que à leurs têtes et leurs portefeuilles.
Jenny Pierson 7 years ago
I totally approve of this...steps must be taken to protect our wildlife
Ray Hartenstine 7 years ago
YES it IS Justified to protect such an endangered species ALL because of C**P Chinese idiot Nature Medicine is make these animals Endangered...! Poachers DO need to now that they are being hunted if they try to risk this kind of thing..!!!
Ja Bor 7 years ago
It's a biased and one sided story....One has to understand that the poachers outnumber and outgun the guards. Do you think the poachers just lay their arms when they see a guard. In Kaziranga the poachers come equipped with AK47 where as the guards have 0.303 rifles made in the 1930...manual reloading...by the time the guards fires a bullet....the poachers can empty his magazine. The guards are underpaid and are usually the only source of earning for the family...he too deserves to defend himself. Period.
First Last 7 years ago
The question is, could this kind of punishment ever be justified? YES And how many innocent people were killed? ZERO
Paul Swabek 7 years ago
Kill any and all human life that threatens endangered species. All parks should allow this. If you go on owned property back in the 1500s in england and hunted foxes youd be killed, so why not this. Keep it up park. Infact go further. Let all parks holding endangrred species do this. Id even allow them to keep the deaths of poachers off record.
Syazwi Syahmi 7 years ago
The poachers are the animals. I see no problem eliminating them for their own selfish desires. I really don't feel anything for people like those anyway.
Dustin Cubit 7 years ago
Elizabeth needs to get a clue. No body should care about poachers. They kill people too.
Fabio Olmos 7 years ago
Compare 50 people as a % of the local human population with the number of poached rhinos as a % of the world's population
Colin Michael 7 years ago
When there is a war there will always be civilian casualties. Part of life so I approve of this anti poaching method.
Jonathon Sherwood 7 years ago
Lol the author keeps writing "but" and "however" like it's a bad thing. Play stupid games win stupid prizes
Yael Choleva 7 years ago
Either humans kill entire species or some humans (bad humans) are killed to save said species. So hard to choose. Innocent rhinos or rhino-killers? So hard. In the end we will all die and those who harm others need to be removed - one way or another (poachers will only stop if they are stopped by others, killing them for continuously murdering rhinos is the only incentive: get killed doing something awful or stop. That's as far as that goes.)
Shannon Kinard 7 years ago
It is a story of success BECAUSE they kill poachers, not "but they kill..." The question at the end is dumb about "how many innocent people were killed?" Who says that any were innocent? You're making it sound like a bunch of pedestrians and children were walking around throwing rose petals on what happened to be protected lands next to endangered rhinos. Or like a lost child happened to walk within 100 feet of a rhino and got shot. These are people that have invaded onto an area they have no business being near in the first place. Those protecting the park are just that... ON THE PARK. People who shouldn't be on the Park are just that... NOT SUPPOSED TO BE THERE. They put themselves in harms way. So let me pose the question to you- Why do you think any of the people shot by park protectors were innocent? Is there any data to indicate that any of the poachers were "innocent poachers," or that any person shot was there in the 1st place with an intention other than poaching?
Brendan Curtis 7 years ago
These poachers are trespassing, and carrying weapons onto private property. Park Guards are well within rights to shoot. Even if this was in the USA, this would still be legal, even if there were no Rhinos Involved. The poachers know they are committing a crime, and know they risk being shot. So they do it anyway, and get shot. Fair's fair.
Kevin Sweeney 7 years ago
At the beginning of the 20th century there were 500,000 rhinos across Africa. Now there are roughly 30000 of all species in all the world. So this article says that park rangers have killed hundreds of thousands of people. Personally I abhor violence. But the talking has not worked. The begging has not worked, Writing, and even enforcing, new laws have not worked. So where are we to go next? Time to take it to the poachers on the terms they have chosen. And just generally everybody stay away from the damn Rhinos
Alex Kedian 7 years ago
Are you serious, poachers being killed for hunting an endangered species is seen as action taken "too far"?. The fact that Rhinos are killed, is a testament to humans going "too far" for greed and participating in an archaic trade. Drastic times call for drastic measures
Jacques Rossouw 7 years ago
If you are in the Park the rule is Don't Get Out your Car! If you are in the park on foot without a registered gide with a rifle, you are a poacher??? What els???? Rules are rules and if the sine says Poachers will be shot Dead 💀 don't be a poacher please!
Raju Sesharaj 7 years ago
This post is lame. If there is a bank and if you try to steal it you get shot. This is similar these animals are endangered they are supposed to be protected and when you see poachers with big guns trying to kill animals are you going to debate with them?
Jonathan Farr 7 years ago
They are mostly marketed as a miracle cure for everything from cancer to erectile dysfunction Small penis syndrome
Marlin King 7 years ago
we need more action like this to many animals have went extinct just in my lifetime
Chandranshu Tiwari 7 years ago
Dear writer, If you think killing poachers is a step too far remember the fact that the forest guards also depend on the rhinos for their livelihood. where kill a rhino would fulfill poacher's needs for once, the animal's survival would ensure the long term sustenance of the forest guards.
Steven Verwichte 7 years ago
kill more poachers, pull their teeth out before they give their last breath!! should of done this years ago!!!
Paul Cameron 7 years ago
The rhinos have no choice when looking down the barrels of guns why should the poachers. NO THIS DIDN'T GO TO FAR. It would be one thing if a native tribe was shooting it for food for the tribe and using all parts in honor of the rhino. And yes there are other options for food, but you get my point.
Rahul Natekar 7 years ago
The whole idea behind this approach is that, maybe the animal doesn't know when it might be killed, but a human who has been forewarned about the consequence, and even after knowing what can happen , if the human goes ahead with his action, the human himself has justified the consequence of getting shot at.
Robert Molendyk 7 years ago
They add "50 poachers killed so far" like it's a bad thing. If you are willing to risk the extinction of a species I think the world is better without you anyways. Bravo and keep up the good work!
Heather Fey 7 years ago
this article is stupidly biased. "could this punishment ever be justified?" Humans are the largest parasitic species on this planet....obviously if we are having to kill our own kind to protect another, the stance shouldn't be, "this has gone too far," it should be, "thank god some of us have finally pulled our heads out of our asses and are working towards eliminating the psychopathic and parasitic tendencies that our cultures have created in harm towards the animal kingdom." I expect better from you, Bored Panda. Get your s**t together.
Giorgi Sabashvili 7 years ago
amount of stupid here in the comments are astounding... can you imagine how many people were killed who were innocent and just looked like they were poaching? overpopulation isnt a reason to advocate human killing. i understand that extreme measurements are to be taken in order to save endangered species, but at least aknowledge the sacrifices.. not all people are in fault of rhino endangerment
Thorsten Soll 7 years ago
where is the problem? Stop poaching endangered animals, stop buying or selling rhino horn or ivory...no one gets hurt or killed. end of the story.
pearl dsouza 7 years ago
I live in India and this is actually not acceptable, here many innocent people have been caught and declared as terrorists. People hold a lot of personal grudges or fake their achievements so that they are eligible for a higher salary and status. This is not the right thing to do.
Shamik Ghosh 7 years ago
This is a very bad article. It wrongly brings up the issue of human rights. If you know the state of affairs of most of India's forests, how they are being destroyed everyday then you will know that something needs to be done. Also, Kaziranga is in a state where there are lots of issues, insurgency, ethnic conflict, militancy and Kaziranga, unlike other Indian Forests, doesn't allow people to venture into it, its prohibited.So this idea of "shooting poachers going too far" is ill conceived.
David Mullbock 7 years ago
Lots of pro-shooting folks here. I would have expected a lot of namby pamby enlighten types. I agree with you. Compared to these animals, the poachers are expendable. Still, when you vote, do you vote for people who want to outlaw the death penalty? If so, it seems inconsistent.
Martinez Rodriguez 7 years ago
100% worth the punishment! We should only eat a select few species that we farm, killing any other animal or cutting down protected forest should be punishable by death! To many people think that this generation is all that matters because it's the one that they have lived in. Wrong this ball of rock has got to last humanity until it becomes an interstellar community, so being forced to consider our actions for the good of the future, is always a good thing. No matter how brutal.
Mario Chef 7 years ago
really? " How many innocent people were killed?" I thought they were poachers! If so GOOD ! How's a rihno suposse to defend itslef in front of a bullet?
Gerhard Wolleter 7 years ago
The question is, could this kind of punishment ever be justified?
Gerhard Wolleter 7 years ago
The question is, could this kind of punishment ever be justified?...YES, KILL THEM ALL.
Linda Lee-Brown 7 years ago
I'm not sure what to think. I know if it was me I would certainly stay the hell away from the park and not try shooting and hacking the horns off the rhinos. I have a feeling that a lot of very brave park workers have been murdered by poachers over the years at various African parks trying to stop the poachers. So it could be self preservation as well as protection of innocent animals.
AnnieLaurie Burke 7 years ago
Is there any indication that "innocent" people were killed? How is this a "license to kill anyone" anymore than any other law-enforcement situation where someone can be injured or killed while they are committing a crime? Poachers are warned they are subject to law-enforcement action if they are committing crimes. Yes, shoot poachers on sight. Poachers armed with automatic weapons have come into preserves and killed wildlife AND rangers. And I am supposed to feel sorry for them? Sorry -- they get what they deserve. Kudos to Kaziranga!
Rick Rockwell 7 years ago
If that's what it takes... The bastards don't belong there. If you find one of them in your house - you can do the same thing. No difference.
Elise Zoli 7 years ago
Extraordinary measures are required against the multinational cartels, and to protect our patrimony. Gen. Ham, AFRICOM, recommended as much: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HGeq6njQfto
Robert Brinty 7 years ago
This is not far enough. Hung drawn and quartered the poachers! Civilians would not be in the area otherwise on a tour as tourists. Conservation areas are there for a reason. Kill the f*****s.
Joshua Royer 7 years ago
How is this 'going to far'? Clearly it works. 2400 safe rhinos. For the price of 50 dead a******s. I'm okay with this.
Victoria Pietsch 7 years ago
Ironically, when I was younger, my dream was to move to Africa and "poach the poachers." As crude as this may seem to most people (as the idea of killing other humans is rather harsh), there is the overall aspect that, ultimately, the short-term hope of preventing the loss of human life would be overridden by the long term imbalance of an entire ecosystem, should things grow more out of hand than they already are. I think that, despite the implications of killing other humans, this is ultimately a better solution than most other attempts. Most poachers will not listen to the law, and they surely must be stopped. And besides, maybe this will scare others to not do this kind of thing, thusly lowering the deaths on either side. Humans used to die all the time while hunting, so it seems reasonable for them to face similar risks when poaching for mere human greed.
Ron Ankney 7 years ago
Poachers are not an endangered species. In fact, they rank quite low on the scale that measures how "humane" a Human is and should be. My vote goes with protecting the Rhinos by whatever means necessary...including clubbing them to death, disemboweling them, shooting them, hanging them... etc. The world would be a much better place without them.
Tim Scott 7 years ago
This photo essay is photographing and documenting one topic and then pops the inane question at the end that contradicts the theme. Yes! It is okay to kill poachers. Maybe, as a middle ground, there should be an oversight committee to make sure that poacher-killers don't go beyond their mandate. But, the ends justify the means when it comes to the wholesale murder of fragile species.
Rob Gilbreth 7 years ago
When there are 7+ billion people in the world and only thousands or less of a few endangered species... I say....here's to 50 more poachers *cheers*
Hunter Francis 7 years ago
"innocent people" really? Someone clearly has a bias. This isn't too far at all, this species is endangered, and there are 7 billion people on earth. The poachers don't deserve life if they are going to take the life of something that is going to become extinct. And they know the boundaries in which you can be killed in, so stay away. Its that simple.
Krystal Kubiszewski 7 years ago
"And how many innocent people were killed?" The poachers are NOT innocent people. The rhino horn trade is illegal in India, yet these poachers will kill the rhinos to get their horns. They are criminals, and I do not feel remorse for them meeting such a fate.
Kayleigh Harter 7 years ago
Poachers are not "innocent people." They are greedy, violent thugs looking to get rich by killing endangered animals. They deserve whatever they get. I applaud the park for their zero - tolerance approach.
Devendra Kumar 7 years ago
This is not too far. They are criminals and it is very hard to stop them without doing this.
Shigure Tatsushige 7 years ago
Anyone that kills animals for fun or sports also should be killed, remember human=mammal=animal ... Human life is no higher then any other animal on this planet, we do not own the planet.
Bea Gyulay 7 years ago
Not too far at all. Innocent people wouldn't have been where they were going to be shot. The rangers know what they're doing. Too bad they couldn't have done this to save the black rhino which is now officially extinct. They managed to kill them all. So, again, NOT TOO FAR!!
Linda Hupp Motschiedler 7 years ago
As the article stated, all of these people were going after rhino horn therefore they were POACHERS and NOT INNOCENT PEOPLE. Innocent people do not go into a national park with a gun and approach an endangered species. I am sure the rangers or guards had good reason to kill these people and I support them! It is about time these countries got serious about confronting the poaching problem before all the animals are gone. Another point is that many of the rangers are killed by the poachers. These types of people have no value of life whether it is human or animal. That is an undisputed fact. The really unfortunate fact is that the poaching problem will never end until countries such as China ban the importation of these products for good. They can kill one small poacher but there are probably 100 more waiting to take his place bc of the poverty in these countries and the $$ they can make poaching.
Marilyn Slater 7 years ago
There is a superabundance of people, there is a dearth of Asian Rhinos. Those people who slaughter Rhino for their horns deserve to be shot... They know the risks.
Mark Gall 7 years ago
Sorry, but the author of this article seems to have little idea what she's talking about when giving her greatly misguided opinion about poachers. The poachers in some other areas have wiped out rhinos, as well as elephants, and this place would be next. The reason is several fold: 1) Local courts do NOT give deterring sentences for poaching in many places, and even in places that they do, the poacher leaves quietly through a back door later. Local authorities either are bribed (they too make very little money), or threatened. 2) When you have people living in the third world, wages (often $1,000 to $2,000 per YEAR), poachers can make many years wages in a very short time. 3) Park rangers in several areas that do NOT have a shoot on sight policy tend to get killed by poachers. Where do I get my information? I'm retired from NPS and BLM U.S. law enforcement, and arresting poachers in the U.S. was part of my job, and I knew overseas law enforcement.
chachkimooch 7 years ago
No way is this too far! Save the rhinos, KILL THE POACHERS!!! As far as I'm concerned, this should also happen for EVERY OTHER endangered species as well. Maybe then people will stop poaching!
Azure Adams 7 years ago
How can I get a job there? Also let's make this a practice that every animal preserve can do. Time to take out the most deadliest of animals
Jacqueline Aaronson-Glaab 7 years ago
I think the Rhinos won't mourn the poachers ... And neither will I
Violet Camicat 7 years ago
Too far? Well, let's have a look at the numbers. How many people have been killed to protect the rhinos? and how many rhinos have been killed by people? Or, maybe we could shift the perspective a little bit? How many rhinos are there on earth compared to how many people? It's a huge difference to each of the two populations, if a rhino or a man is being killed.
Damian Staron 7 years ago
Yes, every single person killed by the park guards deserve it. If you're guarding the rhinos chances are you are going to be marked for death too. I would love to guard endangered animals like this. I'll shoot first and ask questions later. The end.
Mckenzie Latham 7 years ago
Here's an idea if you in a national park with a gun or trap and you're not a park ranger...you're a hunter/poacher so it's open season on you... i don't see how innocent people can be killed if they're not threatening the animals. This is what's called protecting your national resources, if you can shoot someone for trespassing and or going on your property, you can shoot a poacher.
Diane Brand 7 years ago
Where did my comment go? Yes, they can let it be known that poachers will be killed and then KILL THEM. Animals are helpless, people have a choice. Rhinos would be extinct if such actions were not taken. Someone must respect & protect animals. If poachers know they will be killed, chances are they'll stay away. If not, they'll die.
Gee Filippi 7 years ago
'The question is, could this kind of punishment ever be justified? And how many innocent people were killed?' Peak Liberalism. Will you honestly condemn a species to extinction because some kind of half-baked Humanism? if you so you need to go take a long hard look at yourself. People like you are a real danger to this world.
Jenny Jozwiak 7 years ago
I think that is fantastic! As far as I know, humans are no where NEAR extinction! If they kill an endangered animal -- they deserve to die.
Sully Erna Nora 7 years ago
They are doing the right thing. Kill them before they start killing others. Otherwise how?? We need more people and places with the same mindset. The animals need to be protected from evil human.
Kary Paganini 7 years ago
I LOVE IT!!! Every animal abuser deserves to be tortured and killed! Every poacher deserves to be tortured and killed! Every trophy hunter that kills for sport, and not for food, deserves to be tortured and killed! Any person that, in any way, knowingly aids in the implementation of any of the above violations against animals deserves to be tortured and killed! Period, end of story!!!
Debbie Coulsey 7 years ago
I think it's about time! We have been watching animals get so close to being extinct and done nothing. While your a t it shoot those big game hunters who pay for the " right" to kill. We all know that $$ has gone in someones pockets and the poor animals have no idea they have been " picked" to be killed.
Mark Young II 7 years ago
I'm a hunter and a human and wholeheartedly support this process. There is a huge difference in a hunter and a poacher. Responsibly harvesting a sustainable animal is fine, but when you are trying to take out endangered species just to take their horns, you should get a bullet. Play stupid games, win stupid prizes.
Dianne Hayward 7 years ago
I applaud this action! Desperate times take desperate measures! We share this planet with many other species, yet we treat them with disdain and subject them to horrendous cruelty. If we don't want the planet to end up being nothing but a seething mass of violent and barbaric homo sapiens, then we must take extreme measures. What right do we as human beings have to cause the extinction of other God given species? None!
Felix Rojas 7 years ago
If it was a poacher... well deserved... if it was an innocent person... this world is too cruel for someone like that... better to end their suffering now!
Maggie Burlingham 7 years ago
Since the beginning of time, poaching has been subjected to death if caught. Even in the Wild West, one could steal a man's wife and get away with it but steal his horse and get hung.
Anthony Merlo 7 years ago
This article reads like it was written by a four year old. Rock on. Save the rhino, kill the poachers.
Gus Rozestraten 7 years ago
the life of a poacher isn't worth more than the life of a rhino. the hunter gets hunted, there's poetic justice in there somewhere.
Lawrence Kopp 7 years ago
All parks need to adopt the same level of protection, for the animals. Poachers enter rhe parks at their own risk.
Jim Meservie 7 years ago
I am all for killing poachers, all of the park should do the same. Get rid of the poachers whatever they can.
LeeAnn Young 7 years ago
Kill more poachers. Seems it is the poachers or the rhinos, elephants, giraffes, etc. Choose to save the animals. Humans are not going extinct. If you do not want to be mistaken for a poacher and shot, then don't act like poacher. Stay away from the animals.
Joan Perry 7 years ago
I agree with it. There isnt much else they can do to protect the animals over a large area. The pouchers know the risks and still try to kill them. I am human and I agree 100% with their policy.
Phyllis Fee 7 years ago
I personally support this method, it appears to be one of the most effective in protecting the rhinos from the monsters who would shoot them, cut their horns off and leave them to die slowly. And what's more funny about this? The article was made in attempt to bash this method yet it's only shined more light on it and gain more support for the rangers.
Sue Foster-collins 7 years ago
Yes it's right & should be the same wherever poaching for horns or tusks is a problem, it would soon stop happening.
Madeleine Feehan 7 years ago
Great move .. this should have been done years ago and this programme should be expanded to include all areas of wild life poaching.. No sympathy for the poachers .. they know the risks and die because of their choices .. unlike the poor animals.
Jane Wallace 7 years ago
How many innocent animals have to be killed before this type of thing has to be implemented? Stop killing the animals for greed and sport and perhaps they will stop killing poachers... This should be used in many more places... the killing of animals needs to stop... we are NOT god and should not decide which species survives and which doesn't!
Jane Wallace 7 years ago
How many innocent animals have to be killed before this type of thing is put into force. This is perfect and should be used in more places... stop killing animals for game and sport and then there will be no need to kill poachers.
Amber Jones 7 years ago
The only way the poaching is going to stop is if they start getting killed, nothing else gets through to them. If you kill an endangered animal or are making an attempt to kill an endangered animal you get killed! Simple as that
Gianna Aleman 7 years ago
Bravo to them! They should do this in all the parks. Poachers would start looking for a different vocation.
Rebecca Kathleen 7 years ago
They are not "innocent" if they are poaching an endangered species. I also agree that I'm fine with this approach. Post signs saying "poachers will be shot on sight" and it's fair warning.
Matej Novoselec 7 years ago
I agree with this approach. Many innocent people are killed daily by civilized world and everybody is okay with it since its in the name off democracy and freedom.
Nicky Casthavian 7 years ago
No, this is not too far. A******s were killed, not people. I do not consider these kind of soulless "people" as human beings. Just as rapists and murderers. Shoot them all down to the last one! Then the world will be a better place.
Dawn Elson 7 years ago
Absolutely the correct thing to do and should be done in every animal protection area -good going eventually the poachers should get the message
Lisa Chen 7 years ago
i approve this approach of killing poachers. Thousands of rhinos are killed every year for no good reason by poachers. They should know the risks going into conservation territory, hence they are asking for it, ofcourse the rhinos have no way of defending themselves against guns and so am glad humans have taken up the duty to protect them. instead of condemning this practice for killing poachers we should be celebrating the life of the rhinos saved.
Sally Vogel 7 years ago
The poachers knew what they were doing was wrong. Maybe there should be more of this kind of protection for endangered species. How about going after the destroyers of the environment in the same way? Frontier justice they used to call it.
Ara Telecaster 7 years ago
Poachers are BREAKING THE LAW and do so at their own risk by trespassing onto protected lands to slaughter these endangered animals. I would happily sign up to guard these rhinos and elephants and protect them by whatever means necessary.
Bethany Alice Cooney 7 years ago
I don't get why the article is acting like this is a bad thing, these people go out and kill an animal from a far, like a coward, purely for greed. If you are willing to kill another animal (yes we are animals) without reason or real need to then you yourself should be prepared to be killed in the process.
Aly Mathis 7 years ago
How many innocent people are out there with a gun to kill an endangered species? None. Not one single innocent person is along for the joy ride. I live in America and most definitely support this approach. Until the day comes when people learn to follow the rules and can respect animal life as much as human life, they can go on shooting poachers. They wouldn't be poachers if it were legal so just remember that.
Wilhelm Stuttgart 7 years ago
Humans are nowhere near extinct. We can spare a few. It's called "culling the herd." The weak, the lame, the diseased (poachers) should be harvested without remorse.
Eli Lonn 7 years ago
If poachers want to show their a*s by killing such beautiful creatures, then they should reap the consequence. Maybe then they will learn that a horn is not a miracle cure. They do not need them. They want them to satisfy the greed in their hearts. Well they will soon learn that greed does not exist in hell.
Chad Krisher 7 years ago
Looks good to me... I say if you're carrying a gun with the intent of killing something for profit and you get killed in the course, then who cares. It's the world that you have created for yourself. Live by the gun die by the gun?
David Sperry 7 years ago
No, it isn't too far. In fact, it isn't far enough. ALL of Africa should have this policy PERIOD. If poachers can't get a rhino under threat of death, maybe they'll even think twice about poaching ANY animal.
Mark Michalek 7 years ago
Keep shooting them. There are billions of people not so many rhinos.
Naomi Reynaldo 7 years ago
Yes I agree with this. Poachers know the risk they are taking when they go after one of these rinos so yes keep up the good job. If they were being killed for food it would be different, people need to eat .. killing an animal for it's horn is wrong.
Anthony Mims 7 years ago
This article doesn't really explore how the local justice system decides after a kill whether poaching was taking place and whether the kill was justified. Without knowledge of the local legal system, this article tells us practically nothing.
Sally Willis 7 years ago
How many innocent people were killed? None, they're not innocent. They're willing to kill one of these majestic, endangered animals just for the horns. Bravo to the park rangers!
Chris Lemmon 7 years ago
How many innocent people were killed. Probably zero. Good for the conservationists. This approach should be taken more universally in areas with highly poached endangered wildlife.
Devin Eagan 7 years ago
have they gone to far? are you f*****g stupid? no this needs to be allowed to protect every endangered species around the world
Devin Eagan 7 years ago
have they gone to far? are you f*****g stupid? no this need to be allowed to protect every endangered species around the world
William Staines 7 years ago
Poachers don't think beyond their nose, they don't care if these animals die out. So if they know the odds are stacked against them they may seek alternative ways to make a living. Keep up the good work!
Jeffery Staples 7 years ago
I don't see what the problem is here, if you're willing to kill something for nothing other than greed, than why can't the park guards shoot you to protect a species for future generations?
Mariel Fülber 7 years ago
Kudos, Kaziranga National Park! And if you ever need some help to reload the guns, please don't be ashamed to call me...
Mitchell Morris 7 years ago
You can't say that "These people all went after the rhino horn", which is highly illegal, but end it with "How many innocent people were killed?". That creates a contradiction.
Austin Werley 7 years ago
This article is ridiculous. Poachers know full well they can be shot and killed for what they're doing yet choose to do it anyway. These park rangers aren't just blowing people away because they can, it's there JOB to protect these endangered animals. Not only that but many park rangers (not necessarily at Kaziranga) have been killed by poachers. None of these poachers are "innocent people", they're dangerous criminals. These rangers risk their own lives to protect these rhinos. It's sad that it's come to this but clearly no other method works to stop poaching. Also, viewer discretion advised, but the video below (depicting a live rhino left to die after having it's horn ripped off) is a clear example of the brutality of poaching and why these rangers are necessary https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=suFKy0jL2AY
John Gregory 7 years ago
How does one sign up to go work at this park? I want to shoot some more stupid people and get paid for it.
Nikolai Post 7 years ago
I'm a hunter. But not a poacher. Kill the poachers who do not follow law.
David Baker 7 years ago
"And how many innocent people were killed?" answer= NONE. Every single person shot and killed was carrying a hunting rifle, in direct defiance of the "NO RIFLES PERMITTED" signs, hence were there for one reason and one reason only, and paid the price for their intentions.
Elaine Stewart-Matthew 7 years ago
I see no problem with them killing poachers. Rhinos are endangered, poachers are not.
Mariel Fülber 7 years ago
Kudos, Kaziranga National Park! And if you ever need some help to reload the guns, here I am
sophiria sam 7 years ago
they are trying to make an animal go out of the face of the earth . There are 8 bil of us so i think if you kill ALL the poachers it just make the world better for both side . And if you are innocent and you tress pass protective ground like this , you are too dumb to be alive , sorry The ranger did a good job , they put thier life on the line to protect thles rino
Stephen Carlsten 7 years ago
Yeah. Humans are extraordinarily over-populated, and more importantly, not special at all. So, if you're an especially s****y human, I see now reason why becoming dead is a problem.
Предраг М. Клекачкоски 7 years ago
Poachers do a harm so great that can not be repaired and they do it for money that they can make with other less destructive jobs. They are warned and know the price of killing an innocent rhino, so I approve the killing of 50 or more ''people''. Keep up the great work.
Margaret Hodgkins 7 years ago
I say, more power to them! If you are in the park to poach, you deserve to die!
Norbert Snorre 7 years ago
Sure. It is the only way to stop the poachers. And most of the time the only way to even catch them.
Artur Roszak 7 years ago
I approve of this of this approach, good job to whoever made this decision.
Délcio Correia 7 years ago
I AGREE. KILLING EVERY ONE WHO TRY TO KILL THOSE ANIMALS... PEOPLE WHO KILL THOSE ANIMALS (OR OTHER ELSE) DESERVES TO BE KILLED TO...
Bill Forrest 7 years ago
Keep right on shooting them. Don't go after the rhino? don't get shot, simple!
Jim Lillie 7 years ago
Was this article written by a poacher, or his family? Why the concern for a useless thug willing to allow something to go extinct over a horn with value placed on it by idiots? Humans are not even close to extinction, I say double the number of poaches killed. In fact, that could be a draw to the park, no one in there is an innocent just walking through, organize poacher hunts, I'd like to shoot one of the poachers myself......
Justin Barney 7 years ago
I believe that poachers should be open game for being shot!! In fact, I believe that anyone seen stalking whales, elephants, rhinos, and any other endangered species should be opening themselves to be free game for anyone wishing to protect these species without the ability to hide or protect themselves!! Poaching of these gentle giants, just so some rich businessmen can be sold snake oil, is beyond disturbing!! God gives us these amazing creatures to enjoy, and in the evilness of sin and greed, we murder them just for a small portion of their bodies!! We should be allowed to treat poachers on a global scale as unimportant as they view the lives of these wonderful creatures!! Open up the season on poachers of endangered species, both in Africa and International waters!! That will make whalers and poachers think twice about their murderous actions!!
John Kasarda 7 years ago
If they were smart they would sell the poachers organs to raise funds to help the preserve ? All for killing the poachers........just sayin.
Dennis Maloney 7 years ago
No it hasn't gone to far by any means. !!! Blow those mf'ers out of their shoes!
Partha Gogoi 7 years ago
To the author? How has this gone too far? Who is endangered? Human or rhinos? Who is a threat to the eco system? The poachers or the rhinos. You should analyze the situation properly. When there are strict orders that no one should roam around in the prohibited areas after sunset, I don't know wtf you are talking about.
Soma Biswas 7 years ago
And you will be writing why no poachers have been arrested or killed if they have failed to stop the poachers(killed by park guards) on their mission to kill rhinos...heights of double standards!!!
Jordan Rovelto 7 years ago
Are you serious bleeding heart much ? These rhinos were brought to the brink of extinction by poachers..people who kill for money and have no concern about the future of a species .. I say this isn't far enough or people wouldn't be dying.. as Jim Carey said in liar liar "QUIT BREAKING THE LAW A*****E!!"
Andrew Corbett 7 years ago
H mmmm.. has it gone too far? How many rangers have been killed? I see why allowing shoot to kill is necessary. It would be very ineffective and dangerous to be a park guard otherwise. The people who are hunting the rhino are getting a big pay day, are already breaking the law and are carrying big guns. Park rangers are probably also targets and may need to shoot to kill in order to preserve their own lives. Rangers would not be able to simply arrest a group of people with guns if the poachers knew they wouldn't get shot. They would have no quams about shooting the park ranger and making off with several thousand dollars in rhino horns. I doubt the poachers can be reasoned with. Know they could get killed over rhino horns is at least I good deterent and in the end may mean the Rangers would have to shoot fewer poachers.
Retha Fischer 7 years ago
Are you serious? This has not gone too far and they can't kill with impunity..what nonsense
Lisa Mills 7 years ago
I'm pretty happy with the outcome. Endangered rhinos are being saved by this practice.
Audrey Cooper 7 years ago
I believe either way you're killing a living being, with parents, and possibly children. The rhinos are being killed. I think it's not our decision to decide who lives or dies but, these people are killing them so I believe this action is pretty justified
Juliana Mengardo 7 years ago
Really? Is there actually someone who believes that this has gone too far? I don't.
Phillip McKay 7 years ago
Shoot the poachers dead where they stand. What this article is saying is that a human life is more important than an animal life. Really?? Is that your stance? We're all in this together...animals and humans. It's time that we learn the importance of our other inhabitants on this little planet, and start protecting them as we do ourselves. Shoot the poachers. Then, maybe word will get out that we're serious about protecting them!!
Bianca Meglio 7 years ago
What a b******t article. The journalist is an idiot who does not know anything about poachers. They wouldn't think twice about killing an animal or a human.
Graham Jordan 7 years ago
This successful strategy to protect defenceless wildlife against well armed poachers has my full support. I have supported conservation efforts through donations to WWF and paid NP fees on several occasions to see these magnificent animals, but rhinos are still being poached in Kruger and elsewhere. Harsh measures against poaching are totally justified to ensure this species survives, however the middle men, the importers of the horn and the countries where the horn is imported need to be dealt with as a priority.
Stacy Halie Willison-Smith 7 years ago
I think it's okay to kill potchers because it's not right to kill Rino's just for there horns I think more parks should do this to protect the endangered species
Ian Howard 7 years ago
The question is, could this kind of punishment ever be justified?And how many innocent people were killed? YES YES YES a thousand times YES! To treat poachers as human is an insult to humanity. The animals cannot defend themselves against rifles so hiumans with rifles have to do it for them!
Ian Grantz 7 years ago
How's many innocent people were killed? None. Poachers are not innocent. Poachers kill for capital and personal gain, this park kills them to protect the future of a species on earth. As far as I'm concerned poachers are the same as serial killers or mass murderers: a waste of space and energy. While I am sad to see the loss of life, the worst thing that could be done right now is let these poachers keep doing their thing.
makenzie stephenson 7 years ago
People are killing Rhinos and elephants and these animals are dieing and this person only cares that people are dieing, not the animals.
Arye Bognar 7 years ago
They should leave the "potential poachers" bodies to rot the same way that the poachers leave the mutilated rhinos' bodies to rot. Best use for a dead poacher: to scare off the live ones.
Jimena Arroyo 7 years ago
Well, humans are not in danger of extintion and these awful people know the risk of hunt.
Richard Colbourne 7 years ago
Keep shooting the bastards. It's not too far it's a necessary evil. The poor rhinos can't defend themselves against guns so we should.
Luis Cotovio 7 years ago
Screw it. Shoot the bastards. If any "innocent" person is shot, then whoever does it should be held accountable for the mistake, no doubt. But if they shoot a poacher, good. People have been destroying the environment and obliterating animal species for profit with impunity for too long.
Theri McEntee 7 years ago
Any port found to be exporting these should also be heavily fined / shut down. People can only get the horns IF they are allowed &/or able to get OUT OF THE COUTRY Send islamic radicals there ... they love to kill people in the name of their allah and via its self-appointed, narcissistic prophet, muhammid ... they believe that killing the infidels is their clear passage into their heaven with 72 virgins awaiting for them ... SICK
Majush James 7 years ago
A perfect strategy. I think the world need to change to this tune almost immediately to protect wildlife. Option 2 would be to capture poachers when possible and drop them in a human game reserve in Africa where trophy hunters get to go hunt these poachers down. can even broadcast it live on tv and get to use that money for further preservation of nature.
Layla Babb 7 years ago
I am from South Africa, and when you have seen a rhino calf cowering next to its dead mother who has died from blood loss due to half of her face being hacked off for her horn, then you would approve the shooting of poachers as well. This is not for meat. Nothing else is ever touched on these rhinos. Here is a link where you can see some of the more savage ways the animals have died, note of warning it is graphic: http://www.protrackapu.co.za/poaching-incidents/poaching-incidents-gallery/poaching-incidents/rhino-poaching
ADHORTATOR 7 years ago
I am against the death penalty for murder so I can' t agree with death penalty for poaching.
Akkacia Vrtlog 7 years ago
There are no innocent poachers! They should be treated the same way they treat other animals..
Charlene Walsh 7 years ago
I completely agree with this punishment. They are knowingly killing an innocent endangered species for greed. It's so disgusting! Next on the list, people who club baby seals.
Michael Miller 7 years ago
If you walk into a nature preserve with a elephant riffle, your ARE NOT THERE to sight see. so YES kill the damn poachers. then sell their parts to science. maby poachers will go extinct then..........................................
Goh Siying 7 years ago
I've been wanting this "shoot the poachers" thing to happen since I've first heard about poaching. This isn't "too far" at all. Why don't you state that there were rangers who were also killed by poachers too? Poachers don't deserve my pity at all, they know the risks but still continued to murder just for money. By the time justice is finally served where poachers get a life sentence or death penalty, the rhinos will be long gone by then so it's either kill them, or the innocent animals get killed. As long as you're not stupid enough to enter such areas as an ordinary non-poacher, there shouldn't be a problem. 50 is nothing as compared to how many Rhinos and other endangered animals killed by them.
Pranjal Baruah 7 years ago
This approach is very much needed. In the past 2/3 years animals were shot 80/120 per year. Not all facts are correct, there were many instances of firing on both sides that included poachers and forest guards but 50 is not the number of dead. I also appreciate that the park authorities have taken this approach because we seen the numbers of killing of the animal. If there is human rights animals also have the right to live. If humans can kill animals why not do the same to them?
Notchimine Mette 7 years ago
This has not gone too far. It's the only way to save these animals. I wish more Reserves will take this stance. Leave the animals alone or die. It works for me.
Steven Aderman 7 years ago
"how many innocent people were killed?" In what way are they innocent? It clearly states that poachers were killed, it's not like they are killing woman in children, these are people illegally and willingly attempting to kill an endangered species. They knew the risks and what they were getting into.
Sagar Chavan 7 years ago
We, the people sitting behind our laptops really have no right of approving or disapproving this until the fact are known, and mind you facts are not just numbers. there is off course the possibility of this freedom to shoot poachers being misused. but also, hypocrisy as it is, we would be the same people to condone the fall of Rhino numbers in India " DUE TO THE INACTION OF THE FOREST RANGERS"
Mark Gall 7 years ago
The FACTS are that there are well over 7 BILLION humans on this planet, and increasing rapidly, that Asia is far the primary destination for illegal wildlife, and that these animals will be ELIMINATED unless the poaching is stopped. I know a bit about this topic because I'm retired from U.S. Federal law enforcement, and poaching and international sales of wildlife parts were part of my job. I'm also married to a Thai woman, and have spent over 7 years in 21 third world countries in Asia and Central/South America. Poaching will NOT stop without immediately shooting the poachers, as local courts there will NOT provide adequate sentences, and the poachers often walk out of prison shortly after being incarcerated.
Load More Replies... Yoshi Nagato 7 years ago
It is a little bit extreme to shoot the poachers but they won't stop hunting and listening so they have to be punished. Sorry but if you kill an animal just for his horn, teeth or claws you are a bad person. You don't need it, it's not like fur so you are not cold in the winter.
Fei Look 7 years ago
To the writer, in regards to your ending statement, this is not too far. Poaching is heinous. These people are greedy individuals who allow the animal to suffer. On a planet where there are more people than the population of another species, we can bare to sacrifice the stupid few who CHOSE to do something illegal and malicious like ivory poaching.
Rick Harington 7 years ago
Oh so dear author you forget that when they take that horn they actually kill the rhino. I would rather have them killed then killing an innocent rhino.
Debby Gent 7 years ago
It is simple - Do Not Approach with out permission - otherwise your intentions are wrong!
Lina Cruz 7 years ago
Is more than justified, they are people keen on killing for money, why not fight for life... this practice should be stablished in every park and natural reserves. If people need to learn on the bad way so is not another way, because law and politeness are taking us to nowhere!!! Go the rangers!! 😘😘
Mike Daasnes 7 years ago
The poachers are not being killed as a trophy, or to sell the horns. If you can't do the time, don't do the crime. I approve of the killings. Period.
Rebecca Spivey 7 years ago
I'm completely OK with killing poachers. When they go out to kill an endangered animal for money so someone can get a hard-on, then they deserve what happens to them.
Francia Sofia 7 years ago
They had it comin'. I mean humanity is so self center they always believe they are more important than other species.
Ben Goodall 7 years ago
Poaching is illegal, and the park has to be acting within the law, so yeah, perfectly fine. Going after the horn only, and leaving the rest of the animal means you arent hunting for food and resource, purely financial. so sorry, the punishment fits the crime.
Jonathan Sklar 7 years ago
Poachers aren't innocent people. They are killing defenseless animals and sometimes leaving them to suffer half alive while they cut off the Rhinos horns. They aren't innocent they know what they are doing.
Chi Nguyễn 7 years ago
These poachers are not innocent people I must say. Lool at how they kill thousands of animals just to get a small part of their body. I've seen many pictures of rhinos which got their body opened cruelly and I just cried a lot. Why don't you say animals are innocent but those poachers?
Quinn Purdy 7 years ago
Kill as many poachers as needed! How dare they go around killing beautiful creatures! Shame on them.
Jerry Mathers 7 years ago
The one thing we can do with less of is humans. Especially ones that are robbing the world of species for money. I wouldn't mind if they expanded their efforts into other countries and target big game hunters that lure animals off reservations.
Spike Leigh 7 years ago
Good shoot on site the animals must be protected and the rangers must be protected.
B. Adley E. 7 years ago
If "shoot to kill" is to far, perhaps the government could substitute that with "shoot to maim," "shoot to cripple," or "shoot to paralyze" instead.
Maria She 7 years ago
7000 rhinos left on the earth. Against 7 Billion people on the same planet, that have taken and destroyed all land, air&water, killing every living specy on the planet that walks, swims, crawls, or flies. Killing people who want to take more lifes of protected species inside protected areas - so sad. Nearly breaks my heart... Like - for real!
Trisha Dragon 7 years ago
Large scale "castle doctrine". It's not like they don't know. You're also intentionally ignoring the very real heinous nature of the poachers. You have conveniently forgotten how quickly the scumbag poacher garbage will end the life of a park employee. The whole GD reason guns are carried by the park employees is for SELF protection. Poachers don't just say "kk arrest me bruh" ffs. Poachers are 100% safe if they don't freaking poach. Look at it this way, you're 100% safe of dying from a parachute failure if you don't go skydiving. You don't accidentally poach anymore than you accidentally pack a 'chute and hop on a plane. Stay out of other people's s**t. Pretty simple stuff.
Bryan Passey 7 years ago
If the system works leave it alone,the hunters know the penalties and take the risk. Once more we see the bleeding heart lefties sticking there noses in where not required,and their holier than thou attitude.The winners are the animals,leave them to nature.
Aduain Captor 7 years ago
What do you mean with innocent? How can a poacher be innocent? I'd love to shoot some poachers myself tbh. I love this technique, yes please keep shooting them. There's too many humans on this planet but not enough rhinos, so killing a few of those disgusting scum will only do good.
Barbara Wagner 7 years ago
I think it's justified and the last part of the article where it says "how many innocent people were killed." They weren't innocent they went to poach...about time something is done about this! Wish we could kill people who abuse and torture all animals!!!!!!
Atticus Ho 7 years ago
I certainly hope all these 50 people were really poachers, not innocent people shot dead by the park guards for any other reason.
Karyl Agana 7 years ago
If people are there with the intention of harming rhinos, then the deed is justified. Poachers are not innocent, beginner or seasoned they enter a profession with the intention of killing for profit. I understand self-preservation, but I do not understand preservation at the cost of torturing another animal.
Chris Langdon 7 years ago
Excellent. With 6 Billion...ish humans, a large proportion of which are idiots and only a few rhinos crack on.
Joan Miller 7 years ago
Innocent people? If you go in there to try to do harm knowing they can shoot and kill you, you deserve what you get. Always someone defending the evil ones.
Anthony Nizza 7 years ago
I'm damn glad they kill the poachers!!!! They get what they deserve!!!!! I agree 100% with Tiffany!!!
Tabitha Trevino 7 years ago
Well don't complain u asked for it and it's done and has provided proof of it effectiveness
JjRr 7 years ago
Who the hell wrote this article! If someone tries to kill another human being its ok to kill the murderer to protect yourself or others, but its not ok if that other is an animal? Not even if it's endangered? What the hell is wrong with you Elizabeth, you are sick, what do you mean this has gone too far? Do you mean because the managed to safe the rhinos? We can afford to lose some poachers but we cant afford to lose more rhinos, the only decision is in the hands of the poachers, what do they want to do?
Peter Lundell 7 years ago
No, dear Elizabeth, this has not gone too far, and the people killed are most certainly not innocent. You can kid yourself but not the rest of us. The very fact that so many scumbag poachers are killed is precisely why the rhinos are finally being saved and making a comeback. When poachers were treated the way you apparently may want them treated, poaching went rampant. Poachers know exactly the evil they are perpetrating, and they know the consequences. I've always hoped that this sort of action would be taken. Thank you so much for reporting this great news.
Martin Behrens 7 years ago
What I think? Elizabeht put sock in it and write about something thats more up your alley. Make-up or something.
Gordana Abidović 7 years ago
Kill them. All. They are distinct. Humans are not. Humans are going to destroy rhinos population. Rhinos are not going to destroy human race. So they are innocent, not those people.
Cuteazdell Zoz 7 years ago
This isnt too far, we arepart of nature, and if we keep ruining nature, then our existance will be ruined completely. Human has gone too far, and finally someyhing is being done to stop the madness
Simon Jost 7 years ago
These rangers Just do their work, and it's a damn good one! What is not mentioned is that in many other territories, the poachers never hesitate to shoot at rangers! This is the best solution together with educating consumers that horns are not a miracle cure to anything...!
Richard Tyndall 7 years ago
It has not gone too far at all. If they go armed to kill then they should expect to be met with lethal force. I would like to see this extended to other parks. Protect our endangered species as if they were our own children.
Rajat Lonare 7 years ago
journalism at it's worst ,without giving information about innocent people killed ,they just assumed someone would be inncont among poachers shame on such journalism
Zori the degu 7 years ago
Very well done! This have to be done everywhere. Most of the poachers that where shot probably killed hundreds of animals only for their horns or beautiful fur. My opinion is, that this is one of the most severe crimes against nature. They went into a natural habitat and killed its residents. If they give a life sentence for a murder, why should other living creatures be different? These people made a sin and and now they must pay for it.
Janis Tullis 7 years ago
I would think that there would be away to shot and tranquilize a person to stop them. If you can do it to wild animals than why not humans?
Denine Mishoe 7 years ago
To what end? Even when they bring these lowlife scum in alive to stand trial one of two things always happens, (1) they 'mysteriously escape before trial, or (2) the judge lets them off with minimal bail and/or fines... then they just go back to doing what they did before. Corruption is so widespread in that country, no justice can be rightfully served. This justice is the correct justice and true justice as the poacher scum have proven they respect nothing less. I ask you, how much chance does a Ranger stand with a 'dart gun' in his hand, when the poacher is aiming an AK47 automatic gun at them? A DEAD POACHER won't be back tomorrow to murder the wildlife again.
Load More Replies... Linda Fearn 7 years ago
Now they need to kill all the bastards who hunt the elephants and tigers too. Good for the park keepers. The poachers are not poaching to feed hungry people, they are doing it for pure greed.
John Console 7 years ago
Personally they haven't went to far enough and if your out there in the National Park and doing something to give them reason to shoot you YOUR FAULT. Hell even in the States a Farmer has the ability to protect his Live stock and Shoot Trespassers. Moral of what I am saying Don't be doing any shady s**t.
Tyler Bond 7 years ago
How is this any different than a security guard who shoots a bank robber? Are you seriously suggesting we feel bad for these scumbags?
danny Davies 7 years ago
the poachers also attack and shoot at park rangers. i approve of this approach. kill whoever kills these animals.well done
Dan Srdjan 7 years ago
As a human being I approve this approach! This is not to far! Well done to the park!!!! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
spirit wolf 7 years ago
I support this act! Kill the fu*kers! There's a lot of human to spare....
Justin Bentkowski 7 years ago
Poachers are criminals and they don't care who they have to kill should you get in their way. If you think these people are innocent perhaps you should go there in person and ask them nicely to cease and desist. Let me know how that goes for you, if you live i mean.
Justin Bentkowski 7 years ago
Poachers are criminals, they don't care who they have to kill should someone get in their way. If you think this is going too far then perhaps you should go ask them nicely to cease and desist. Let me know how that works out for you, if you are still alive i mean.
Sonny Krogh 7 years ago
How is this going to far??? If they did this for the little bastards stealing cars in my town, no more cars would be stolen.....
Shane Freund 7 years ago
F**k poachers. Kill all those f*****s. This park is doing the right thing.
Suzie Bright 7 years ago
This approach is the ideal way to protect endangered animals from extinction. Humans should use their brains and make a decision not go into the area! They are either stupid or a poacher so the world is a better place for them being shot!
Linda Chan 7 years ago
If I have a sign on my fence that says 'beware of dog' and you still decide to trespass into my yard, then it's your problem not mines. These poachers know what they are dealing with when they go after those rhinos.
Sara Mesa Santacreu 7 years ago
Poacher are NOT innocent... they deserve what they get and worst! No mercy for poacher!
Ozzy Ortega 7 years ago
Who's the whinny a*s who wrote this!? LMAO. you go in to do something illegal. You go in knowing you might get shot for doing it. Then you deserve to be taken out of this earth. You don't deserve to breath the same air as these majestic animals.
Daniel Williams 7 years ago
"This goes too far!" Shut up hippie. Your block party you call a protest isn't saving animal's lives.
Branden Hart 7 years ago
I don't see a problem here, I see an effective solution that should be adopted world wide.
Salman Ali 7 years ago
A killer with an ugly intention to harm an innocent animal can not be an innocent guy So they deserve this treatment
christine c 7 years ago
I like this idea, these animals aren't killed for food but profit. Animals deserve to live on Earth and humans need to protect them.
Jaina Berry 7 years ago
THEY F*****G DESERVE EVERY BIT OF IT! I WANT TO JOIN PLEASE! I JUST WANT TO SHOOT THERE GUYS OUT!
Cristina Predescu 7 years ago
I think it's fair! It should be like this in all parks if you ask me
Atli Ingolfsson 7 years ago
F**k no! They were there to kill the Rinhos for theyr horns. Who knows how many animals the have killed and tortured before they got what they deserved??!! So f**k no not at all. Hope more National Parks and Nation's start doing the same
Atli Ingolfsson 7 years ago
Justified? F*****g hell yes!!! Those f*****g poatchers came there to kill the Rinhos and who knows how many animal's they had tortured and kill be for they got what they deserved?? Hope more National Parks and Nation's will statt doing the same!
Christine Kuzdas 7 years ago
I mean, if they are clearly breaking a law, (which if they are poaching then they obviously are), are they really "innocent"? I get it, 50 people, 50 families impacted. But let's not skew the facts for a sympathy vote here. Let's call it like it is.
Katinka Min 7 years ago
This is insane. You can't just shoot people who hunt animals that are becoming extinct. You'd have to bomb every fish trawler, too. And nuke Monsanto because tehy WILL kill off the bees if they keep going on as they do. The main problem here are not the poachers - the problem are legions of men totally obsessed with their penises and erections and believing absolutely everything a quack will tell them. (Including that raping a virgin will curse them of HIV)
Atli Ingolfsson 7 years ago
Hi. Now my self is a fisherman here in Iceland. There is a special group of scientists who have a well equipped ship with the lates technology and they go each year and estimate and calculate how much there is of all major fish species where Icelandic boats and ship can fish. And out of their researches the quoda for each year is based on. And fich is not in or on any list over endangered animals
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