The UK has become the latest country to amend its advice for visitors heading to the Kruger National Park. In the last week, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (UKFCO) has followed the likes of the US and Australia, in publishing a travel warning for this rather notorious region.
New travel warning: UK tourists advised against travelling into ‘no-go zone’
Earlier this month, a German tourist was shot dead on the Numbi Gate route, leading into the KNP. The group were targeted by armed thugs, who botched their hijacking attempt. As the driver tried to flee, one of the attackers pulled the trigger. The victim was killed instantly.
Two weeks ago, police arrested Napoleon Joseph Nyalungu, 35, in connection with the incident. Nyalungu was charged with murder, attempted murder and attempted hijacking. He appeared in the Kabokweni Magistrate’s Court on Friday 14 October.
This isn’t the first time an act of violence has been carried out against travellers on this route. The Tourism Ministry has been quick to step-in, and they are looking for a solution to this very pressing issue. However, international governments are taking matters into their own hands.
A new travel warning on the UKFCO website has been added, to reflect the threat posed by crooks patrolling Numbi Gate. A direct reference is made to the recent tourist death. Visitors are strongly encouraged to seek an alternative route into Kruger National Park.
- The R538 itself has also been identified as a dangerous road. This is due to a recent spate of ‘violent incidents and protests’:
“Most violent crimes tend to occur in townships and isolated areas. However, armed robberies and violent crime have taken place in other places. This includes popular tourist spots such as Table Mountain and the surrounding area of Numbi Gate, outside Kruger National Park.”
“Following a violent attack resulting in the death of a tourist, SANParks have urged visitors to avoid the Numbi Gate entrance to Kruger National Park. There have been protests on the R538, leading to the gate. Please follow the SANParks advice on using alternative entrances.” | UKFCO
By Khamisi
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