Parks agency says it is monitoring the situation of free-roaming animals in Matsulu
The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) said the community should report it to relevant stakeholders if they come across free-roaming wild animals.
Following another elephant that was seen roaming the Sibuyile Section in Matsulu on Monday February 19, the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) said it is monitoring the situation.
The elephant had escaped from the Kruger National Park (KNP) and roamed about in the yards, from about 20:00 to 02:00.
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Simphiwe Shungube, the MTPA’s spokesperson, said: “The MTPA is monitoring the situation. Such incidents must be reported to the authorities. The fence breaks are reported to the state veterinary, who are responsible for the maintenance of it. The MTPA is the issuing authority and manages complaints outside of parks.”
When asked if there is a long-term plan, Shungube said: “The long-term plan is that the fence is being repaired and upgraded by the relevant department.”
He added that members of the community are requested to report these incidents to the authorities such as the MTPA, the SAPS and CPFs for proper handling.
“The contact persons are Steyn Louw on 083 626 6792 and Nomcebo Kunene on 072 661 6718,” said Shungube.
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According to the KNP’s spokesperson, Ike Phaahla, they have scheduled a meeting with all stakeholders to find a lasting solution and will communicate the outcome. Phaahla said once the animals leave the KNP, it is no longer the park’s responsibility, and the MTPA then carries the responsibility.
