Txting 2 ctch poachrs (The Horn, autumn 2007)
The rhino scouts in the Chyulus don’t just use old-fashioned radios. They also use text messaging as an early warning system. These messages between Chyulu headquarters from the scouts show us how a major poaching sting in the Chyulus succeeded…
June 9, 13:55 (Edward)
Hi Sir. I am at Isinet for much poaching taking place in various places. We saw spot lights last night and chased but could not catch them. Will ambush tonight
June 10, 19:17 (Sam)
I went to patrol and found track of vehicle in the bush and eventually came across one giraffe that has been killed last night and I recovered 1 panga [hunting knife]. Pse put your phone where there is reception coz am getting problem in reaching u. be alert even tonight. If possible send e credit.
June 11, 11:11 (Sam)
The op is –tive coz the boys [poachers] have not shown up. When will you be back?
June 11, 16:35 (Edward)
7 poachers seen yesterday at Msembei area, this is beyond Centre, fixed snares which already caught one cow and 2 other managed to get out, 5 snares removed by herdsmen
June 12, 14:37 (Edward)
We found poachers hide out in bush with tracker dogs. Chased and fired 5 shots over their heads but they not stop. but got away. recovered bow and 7 poison arrows.
June 13, 15:40 (Wilson)
Hallo Fred, ops going well here. Went 2 Ol Donyo Sambu and found everything smooth.
June 17, 23:36 (William)
Hi. I came to realize that most of the informers don’t have radio, so they flash me for reports and I have to call them, if possible you send me credit.
June 19, 21:06 (Edward)
We just started op next to Muimo’s home area. I met all teams as we planned, also met Samuel to assist us, will try to cover various points 2moro. I will keep updating you.
June 24, 09:44 (Wilson)
Mayday mayday. We are following tracks of 3 people who are following a Rhino at Matiwa. send mobile one to help. Alert and open radio links.
June 24, 11:54 (Wilson)
Cancel call out of tracker dogs...Have caught one poacher. We have evidence of snares and bushbuck meat. Send car to base to collect poacher.
July 1, 13:27 (Fred)
Morning Richard. Informer says the poachers who's bow and poisoned arrows recovered by scouts want them returned, or they will burn informers house and your house too… pls call.