Elephants escape from Kruger National Park into Komatipoort: In most cases, communities attack and kill wild animals whenever they escape from the park.

Author(s)

Bongekile Khumalo, Mpumalanga News

Date Published

Elephants were spotted near Komatipoort yesterday morning and people could not help but take videos of the gentle giants munching on sugar cane.

The spokesperson for the MTPA, Kholofelo Nkambule, confirmed that elephants had been found on the N4 in Komatipoort and were driven back to Kruger National Park (KNP).

“We continue to work with the Kruger when such incidents occur to ensure they are attended to timeously and for the safely of the local communities residing close to the park,” said Nkambule.

She urged locals to inform authorities whenever they come across wild animals. “Communities are urged to contact our staff on 082 807 1057 so that they can attend to this,” said Nkambule.

Many instances have happened in the past when animals from the KNP cross fencing barriers. “We always have animals that cross the fence and go into communities, but we have mechanisms on how to deal with such situations,” said Ike Phaahla, the KNP’s GM of communications and marketing.

He said the community can use the KNP emergency number, 013 735 4000, should they come across such incidents.