DHAKA: South Africa plans to evacuate hundreds of rhinos from the famed Kruger National Park to safe havens out of horn smugglers’ reach.

The environment minister announced Tuesday, reports The Straits Times.

‘A decision has been made on this issue of translocation,’ said Edna Molewa, announcing an action plan to curb spiralling illegal hunts for rhino horn.

‘Relocations from the Kruger National Park and the creation of rhino strongholds could allow the total rhino population size of South Africa to continue to grow,’ she said.

The authorities ‘could relocate up to 500’ rhino, which can weigh a tonne or more, said South African National Parks ecologist Sam Ferreira.

BDST: 1653 HRS, AUG 12, 2014