SANParks calls for information to assist in action against driver who bumped Kruger lion

South African National Parks  (SANParks) says, at this stage, no further action can be taken against the driver who bumped into a lioness at the Kruger National Park on Sunday, 11 August.

This as the park says it needs more information to be able to take further action against the driver.

In a video shared on social media, an SUV is seen bumping a lioness on a road inside the national park.

Following the viral video, an outcry by X users called for SANParks to take action against the driver.

[ON AIR] SANPARKS released a statement earlier today about an incident involving a driver who bumped a lioness with his car on the H1-4 between Satara and Olifants Camp on Friday. Isaac Phaahla speaks to @AshrafGarda on #TheNationalPulse #SABCNews @SABCNews pic.twitter.com/M0vroFJVvX

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Kruger National Park ups security amid spike in poaching and snares

— SAfmRadio 📻 (@SAfmRadio) August 12, 2024

Lioness saga: ‘More information required’ – SANParks

Speaking to The Citizen on Tuesday, SANParks said it will not be pursuing further action against the vehicle’s driver at this stage.

It said the decision was based on the driver being a tourist and lack of information that would enable the park to take further steps.

“The vehicle registration numbers are on our system and if they return to the park, we will speak to the owner to get his side of the story,” said Kruger National Park spokesperson Ike Phaahla.

SANParks also called for anyone who witnessed the incident or has more information to come forward.

“It is important for the public to be given a fuller view to help everyone understand why the tourist behaved in that manner,” he concluded.

Possible charges

Phaahla said some of the possible charges to be considered against the driver suspected of bumping the lioness would be:

• Contravention of the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act 57 of 2003; and
• Operating a vehicle in a negligent manner that affects the safety of any species.

ALSO READ: Lion pushing: Act on those who break park rules

Woman kills cheetah with vehicle

In a similar event in 2021, a 51-year-old woman killed a cheetah when she ran over it with her vehicle. SANParks confirmed the incident in a statement posted on social media.

“Details are still sketchy at this stage as to what exactly happened, but Vlakteplaas Rangers attended to the scene of the accident”.

According to the statement, the suspect was arrested and handed over to the police. She faced charges related to the National Environmental Management Act for protected areas.

“This is an accident which unfortunately ended the life of an endangered species,” said Phaahla.

The park continues to face serious problems in terms of visitors speeding and littering, especially during peak seasons.

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