A video circulating on social media, allegedly depicting a man driving recklessly through rivers and closed roads inside the Kruger National Park, has sparked outrage, with SANParks warning that the individual will face serious consequences once identified.

According to SANParks’ general manager for communications Rey Thakhuli, the footage shows the individual engaging in dangerous and unlawful behaviour within the protected conservation area.

Thakhuli said the man was seen unlawfully crossing rivers, ignoring officially closed roads and operating a vehicle recklessly inside the national park.

“Such behaviour demonstrates a blatant disregard for conservation regulations, public safety, environmental protection measures and the authority of park management. The organisation wishes to make it plainly clear that conduct of this nature will not be tolerated and will be dealt with the seriousness it deserves,” he said.

Protected areas are governed

He stressed that protected areas are governed by strict environmental legislation, including the National Environmental Management Act and the National Environmental Management Protected Areas Act.

These laws prohibit activities that threaten biodiversity, damage ecosystems, endanger public safety or undermine conservation efforts.

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Thakhuli warned that anyone found violating these laws could face criminal prosecution, hefty fines, imprisonment, civil claims for damages and administrative penalties.

“Driving through rivers, disregarding road closures, and reckless driving in protected areas not only place the lives of the individuals involved at risk, but also endanger wildlife, damage sensitive ecosystems and compromise infrastructure and visitor safety,” he added.

Road closures in the park are implemented for environmental, operational and safety reasons, particularly during flooding, poor road conditions and wildlife movement.

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Efforts under way to identify driver

SANParks confirmed that efforts are under way to trace and identify the driver captured in the footage. Once identified, the individual could face fines and may be banned from entering all SANParks-managed areas.

“We are looking for this individual, and he will face the music,” said Thakhuli.

SANParks has also confirmed that gate officials seen in the footage, allegedly encouraging the behaviour, will face disciplinary action for acting against park regulations and staffs conducts policies.

Members of the public who may have information that could assist in identifying the suspect are encouraged to contact SANParks or the nearest law enforcement authorities.

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UPDATE – May 12, 18:26

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• This article was amended after publishing to include the update.