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Operation Blue Rhino was initiated in 2018 to counter the surge in high-value wildlife crime in Namibia. The formal cooperation between government ministries is enabled through external funding support. Blue Rhino is facilitated through active collaboration amongst numerous partner organisations. Effective conservation systems that enable healthy wildlife populations form the foundation of biodiversity protection in Namibia. Anti-poaching initiatives guard against criminal impacts on vulnerable wildlife.

The Middelburg K9 Unit spotted a suspect Toyota Quantum on the highway and after bringing the vehicle to a halt, conducted a spot search. When the engine bonnet was opened, K9 members discovered two large object wrapped in plastic. Upon closer inspection, the two horns were discovered. The driver, whose identity is known to Middelburg Observer, but who has not appeared in court, was arrested and booked into custody on charges of possession of rhino horns.

In the war on poaching, some of the best defenders have four legs. Trained canines are used in some of South Africa's national parks to detect wildlife contraband like rhino horns, pangolin scales, and ivory at airports and roadblocks. Other dogs are trained to track and apprehend poachers in the field. According to Save the Rhino, 9,885 rhinos have been lost to poaching in the last decade. But Carl Thornton, founder and director of Pit-Track K9 Conservation and Anti-Poaching Unit, says the numbers are likely much higher.