Driver who bumped lioness in Kruger National Park could face charges

A motorist who bumped a lioness with his vehicle in the Kruger National Park (KNP) on Sunday may face charges.

SANParks confirmed in a statement yesterday that it has received the footage posted on social media of a motorist, towing a caravan in the KNP on the H1-4 between Satara and Olifants camps, bumping into a lioness while trying to leave a lion sighting.

According to the statement, in the video, the lioness is seen strolling with other lionesses when she was bumped by a vehicle. The driver was seemingly impatient to get past other vehicles at the sighting.

@lowvelder

An apparently impatient driver bumped a lioness with his SUV and caravan in tow as he tried to push his way through the viewing traffic between Satara and Olifants Camp in the Kruger Park. #lions #lioness #KNP #Satatrcamp #Olifantscamp #krugernationalpark #Kruger

♬ original sound – Lowveld Media

KNP spokesperson Ike Phaahla said park management immediately asked KNP Protection Services to trace the owner of the vehicle and investigate the incident.

Phaahla says charges could be considered against the driver, including contravention of the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act 57 of 2003 and operating a vehicle in a negligent manner that affects the safety of any species.

In the statement, KNP management also said strict measures are always taken against offending drivers to prevent similar incidents in a protected area, ultimately safeguarding wild animals and vegetation.

“We request those who witnessed the incident to come forward so we can conclude the matter without bias. We also appeal to the public to always be on the lookout for different species while driving in the park. Please remember that, as a rule, animals have the right of way.”

Phaahla said people should be cautious at sightings as there are bound to be traffic jams. Rules to assist with guidance on expected behaviour while visiting national parks are included in permits tourists receive at the entrance gates, he adds.

“Visitors are encouraged to familiarise themselves with these for both their comfort and safety, those of our animals, as well as other visitors.”