Boost for anti rhino poaching with MotoTRBO radios

Anti rhino poaching methods were further bolstered this week at the Pilanesberg National Park following a donation of  radio technology worth R300 000.

The donation by Altech Alconm Radio Distributors with Lazer Communications, comprises of 18 digital two- way radios, two dispatcher units and a repeater, as well as installation and support of the systems.

The equipment will assist anti-poaching teams with the right equipment  for their conditions, especially when facing hostile situations.

“Key to our decision as to what technology to supply were the advantages offered by the MotoTrbo system, notably in terms of its location information, encryption, ambient noise cancellation and text messaging capabilities,” explained Zubair Munshi, managing director: Altech Radio Holdings.

Johnson Maoka, the park’s manager emphasised  the need for tools to assist game reserves and national parks across South Africa to effectively fight the scourge of poaching.

 “These include reliable all-terrain vehicles, specialised staff trained in anti- poaching tactics, anti-poaching equipment and an efficient communications system.

“Each is as important as the other in deterring and combating poaching. Only when all are in play can rangers be at their most effective.

That is why today’s donation is so important for the future of our rhino and other endangered species.”

Since March 2010 the park has lost  20 of its rhino through poaching with the last attempt foiled in September 2011.

In the case of location information for example, the GPS antenna in each radio allows the park’s central control room to not only communicate with rangers in the field, but also to determine their location.

The data enables the tactical co-ordination of teams, as well as to  improve response time in emergency situations.

Text messaging is another feature that will be available, enabling rangers to communicate silently during high- pressure or covert situations, and ensuring the element of surprise.

The radios are additionally very robust and have an extended battery life.

“Partnerships like this are vital if we are to actively and effectively deter and prevent poaching,” says Maoka.

A plan was in place to equip other such parks with this equipment

Source: citizen.co.za