Hippo attacks woman in Kruger National Park

A woman was attacked by a hippo in the Kruger National Park (KNP) at about 10:30 yesterday.

The incident occurred along the Tshanga River near Woodlands.

The hippo bull charged and attacked a group of researchers, led by Dr Freek Venter. It eventually got hold of Rinza, Venter’s wife, and badly mauled her.

A field ranger, Christopher Maluleke, shot the enraged animal from no less than 3m away, forcing it to let go of her and flee.

A trained first-aider rushed to the scene and treated Rinza, before the SANParks helicopter and a doctor arrived. She was stabilised and airlifted to Tzaneen Mediclinic where she is being treated.

The KNP’s spokesperson, Isaac Phaahla, confirmed the incident and says the park will give the victim the necessary support.

“When we were informed about the incident, we deployed our helicopter to assist in taking Rinza to the hospital. We will give the victim the support she needs. We also wish her a speedy recovery,” he says.

Phaahla also confirmed that the group of doctors were doing the research with some of the SANParks team. He did not divulge more information about it.