8 hippos missing in the Fezile Dabi District

Authorities in Free State are battling to try to capture eight hippos they say could pose a danger to residents.

Following the floods experienced on Wednesday 23 February eight hippopotamus escaped from Vierfontein near Vaal River

In a statement on Friday the Free State Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (DESTEA) said it notes with concern the report of eight hippopotamus.

“During the recent floods, the camps were flooded and destroyed. Hippos went missing after being flooded out from the boma at Bellavue Free State private nature reserve (game farm).”

The department  immediately visited the farm to assess the situation and has confirmed the incident.

According to the department’s spokesperson, Mojalefa Mphapang communities and farmers in the area have been informed and are encouraged to be vigilant and not to confront the animals but to inform the department’s Environmental Management Inspectors (EMIs) when these animals are spotted.

The following officials can be contacted in this respect:

*Mr Leepile Gaorekoe on 0799510200

*Mr Dave Hayter: 0795078820

“It is unfortunate that the river levels continue to rise, and this makes the search operation difficult.  The department will continue to monitor the situation and work closely with other stakeholders, including the farm owner, in trying to locate and recapture the animals.”