SANDF probe after army truck slams into hippo
2014-02-23 16:57
Dale Hes, African Eye
Mbombela - The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) is investigating allegations that the driver of an army vehicle slammed into a hippo, killing it in the southern part of the Kruger National Park.
SANDF spokesperson Xolani Mabanga confirmed that an internal board of inquiry has been established to investigate the incident.
"The board will ascertain the consequences leading to the incident and will then decide what action will be taken," Mabanga said.
The Kruger has also opened a criminal case against the driver.
Kruger spokesperson William Mabasa said the female hippo was killed on a road near the Nkuhlu picnic site on 15 February.
“We have taken up the matter with senior officials and have opened a criminal case against the driver for reckless or negligent driving and killing an animal,” Mabasa said.
Around 200 SANDF members are stationed in the Kruger to help in the war against rhino poaching.
Mabasa urged visitors to the Kruger to observe the park’s regulations.
“It is very important to observe the rules and regulations of the park, otherwise you end up with fatalities like these, which are very undesirable,” Mabasa said.
The speed limit on the park’s tar roads is 50km/h.
In May 2012, a speeding truck driver was fined R2 500 and issued with a year-long ban from entering the Kruger after killing seven impala.
- African Eye