Watch: Guest recounts near-miss as delivery truck swerves toward Kruger elephants

A delivery driver nearly struck two fighting elephant bulls on the H1-2 near Skukuza in the Kruger National Park (KNP) after pushing past guest vehicles yesterday (July 28).

“We tried to stop the driver when he pushed through parked vehicles while we were watching the skirmish,” said Pretoria park guest Azille Engelbrecht, according to Lowvelder.

“I told him to be careful, but he said he was behind on his deliveries and would drive on.”

According to Engelbrecht, when the driver reached the front of the row of cars, he sped off, swerving across the road and heading straight for the elephants, nearly hitting one. The two elephants scattered and fled into the bush.

“When we drove past the animals, they were standing on either side of the road shaking their heads and flapping their ears,” Engelbrecht added.

She reported the matter to the duty manager at Skukuza, but said she received no reply.

Watch the video:

Reckless driving condemned

KNP spokesperson Rey Thakuli said authorities noted the video of a reckless delivery driver with great concern and condemned the aggression displayed towards the elephants.

“We will track the culprit down and he will be issued a hefty fine. The action might include a ban from entering the park,” he said.

Company suspends driver

The owner of the company involved said immediate action has been taken against the driver.

“We are extremely disappointed and concerned about this incident,” he told Lowvelder. “My family has been doing business in the reserves for over 25 years, and this is something I never thought would occur with our drivers.”

He added that the driver has been suspended with immediate effect.

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