Residents of Sigonde near Musina, Limpopo, say they are living in fear as elephants roam the streets at night, damaging fences, uprooting trees and destroying vegetable gardens.

According to Polokwane Review, the community, located near the Kruger National Park and the Zimbabwe border, has urged the Department of Environmental Affairs to step up efforts to locate and manage the animals.

This is not the first time wild animals have entered the village.

Last December, rangers killed an elephant that had caused trouble, and in April, lions were reportedly seen in the area.

Residents raise alarm

Mahwahsane Mudzweda described the danger to daily life: “Our lives are in danger. We do not feel safe at all. [Recently], we had to run for our lives after we saw elephants on our street.”

Another resident, Takalani Mutele, called for urgent reinforcement of the village fence.

“I am very worried because these animals are dangerous,” she said, adding that rumours suggest four elephants are currently roaming the area.

Department response

Residents expressed frustration that the department had not done enough to ensure their safety.

From the department, official Zaid Kalla confirmed that rangers were aware of the situation.

“A team of rangers has been tracing the elephants, and they have returned across the Zimbabwe border. We are continuing to monitor the situation,” he said.

Kalla urged residents to contact community leaders immediately if elephants appear again.

Breaking news at your fingertips… Follow Caxton Network News on Facebook and join our WhatsApp channel.

Nuus wat saakmaak. Volg Caxton Netwerk-nuus op Facebook en sluit aan by ons WhatsApp-kanaal.