KRUGER NATIONAL PARK – Social media footage depicting an individual engaging in dangerous, reckless, and unlawful conduct within the Kruger National Park (KNP) has surfaced and been noted with great concern and disappointment.

The footage shows the individual crossing rivers unlawfully, driving on roads that were officially closed, and operating a motor vehicle recklessly within a national park environment. Such behaviour demonstrates a blatant disregard for conservation regulations, public safety, environmental protection measures, and the authority of park management.

In a statement from the South African National Parks (SANParks) on Tuesday, head of communication and spokesperson JP Louw says the organisation wishes to make it plainly clear that conduct of this nature will not be tolerated and will be treated with the seriousness it deserves.

“Protected areas are governed by strict environmental legislation, including the National Environmental Management Act and the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, which prohibit activities that may endanger biodiversity, damage ecosystems, threaten public safety, or undermine the integrity of conservation areas.

“Non-compliance with these provisions constitutes a serious offence and may result in criminal prosecution, substantial fines, imprisonment, civil liability for damages caused, and administrative sanctions.”

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Louw says 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.

Road closures are implemented for specific operational, environmental, and safety reasons, particularly during periods of flooding, poor road conditions, or wildlife movement.

Investigation underway

SANParks confirms that efforts are currently underway to trace and identify the individual responsible for these actions. Once identified, the individual will face the full consequences of the law, including the imposition of fines and the withdrawal of access privileges to all protected areas managed by SANParks.

Members of the public with information that may assist in identifying the individual are encouraged to contact SANParks through its official communication channels or the nearest law enforcement authority.

SANParks also confirm that gate officials seen in the video encouraging and supporting the behaviour will also face consequences for their irresponsible actions, which are contrary to park rules and staff conduct, Louw says.