Watch: Delivery vehicle’s driving attracts Kruger authorities’ attention

There is an age-old myth that elephants are terrified of mice.

After an incident on Tuesday (July 28) near Skukuza, it seems the same fear might have developed for a delivery truck driver.

A delivery truck belonging to a well-known local cheese supplier allegedly almost hit two fighting elephant bulls on the H1-2 near Skukuza in the Kruger National Park (KNP).

Eyewitness describes close encounter

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

“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.

ALSO READ: Elephant encounter takes a scary turn in KNP

Kruger Park responds

She reported the matter to the duty manager at Skukuza but said she did not get any reply.

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.

Driver suspended after incident

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.