The horns from the rhinos killed in South Africa pass through an organized network that includes South African businessmen who sell them to the “criminal syndicates that transfer the horns to end markets in Asia” (Orenstein, 2013, p. 87). This organized network transfers the horn by truck to Mozambique (also known as “Poacher’s Alley”), and can have the horn in Asia within 24 hours. This photograph shows a supply of rhino horns that was discovered before it could be flown out of Mozambique.
(Retrieved from sciencenutshell.com)
Social Impact:
Unemployment in South Africa is about 25%, so despite the danger and small salaries, people do take jobs as park rangers. The job has become increasingly dangerous as the rangers have to track down armed poachers. Ken Maggs, who works with the rangers in South Africa, says that the “poaching groups are relentless. There are some days we will have three contacts or firefights with poaching groups” (Serino). Despite the dangers, the rangers continue on the jobs because they need the money to take care of their families. This photo below from Earth Touch News shows a park ranger heading out on patrol.
(Retrieved from http://www.earthtouchnews.com/environmental-crime/illegal-trade/top-10-shocking-figures-of-the-illegal-rhino-horn-trade)
According to Earth Touch News Network, in a 12-month period ending in July 2014, there were 27 reported deaths of park rangers in Africa, with 80% of those killed by poachers.