Authorities from Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife are probing a tragic incident involving a buffalo attack that resulted in the death of a man outside the Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park (HIP) over the weekend.
Details surrounding the escape of the buffalo from the park remain unclear at this time.
According to Musa Mntambo, spokesperson for Ezemvelo, reports emerged on Sunday of a buffalo spotted outside the park, near the Mashiya gate.
“Due to adverse weather conditions hindering helicopter operations, local community members took it upon themselves to track down the buffalo. Ezemvelo field rangers stationed at Siqwashi Outpost responded to the sound of gunfire outside HIP. Upon arrival, they discovered a group of individuals gathered around the deceased victim,” Mntambo stated.
It is believed that the gunshot was fired as an attempt to deter the animal. Ezemvelo’s Chief Executive Officer, Sihle Mkhize, conveyed condolences to the victim’s family, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to community safety.
“The safety of visitors and neighboring communities remains our utmost priority at HIP. While we have stringent safety protocols in place, unforeseen incidents remind us of the importance of ongoing vigilance and measures to enhance safety,” Mkhize remarked.
Ezemvelo is collaborating with local authorities to investigate the circumstances leading to the tragic incident.
“We are dedicated to learning from this event and implementing necessary measures to prevent similar occurrences. Our thoughts are with the affected community, and we stand ready to offer support during this difficult time,” Mkhize added.
Regarding the buffalo’s escape, Mntambo noted ongoing challenges posed by poachers breaching the park’s perimeter fence.
“In recent times, Ezemvelo has faced incidents of fence cutting by poachers seeking unlawful access to HIP. While our team works diligently to address these breaches, constant monitoring remains a challenge. HIP experiences between three to five fence cutting incidents monthly,” Mntambo explained.