Suspected poacher killed by hippo in Kruger National Park
A suspected poacher was fatally injured by a hippo in Kruger National Park, with authorities investigating the incident.
LIMPOPO – The body of a suspected poacher was found along the road in the Pretoriuskop section of the Kruger National Park (KNP) on January 20.
KNP communications and marketing Isaac Phaahla said in a media statement that according to initial reports, three individuals entered the park illegally during the night.
“They were attacked by a hippo and consequently one suspect sustained a fatal injury. The other two are suspected to have carried the body of their accomplice to where it was discovered.”
He said the body of the suspected poacher was spotted by a tourist who covered the body and reported the matter to the section ranger.
“This resulted in an immediate response of all relevant law enforcement authorities with the pathologists securing the scene. Police are currently investigating the matter.”
Phaahla said KNP management cautions anyone who took photos of the body not to share same as it might jeopardise further investigations.
He said anyone entering the park illegally put themselves in danger from freely roaming wild animals as well as arrest.
