SANParks is on the hunt for an individual who posted a video on social media in which he drives recklessly through a section of the Kruger National Park.

SANParks has slammed the actions of the driver as “dangerous and unlawful conduct” within this protected area under SANParks management.

“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.”

Head of Communications JP Louw says conduct of this nature will not be tolerated and will be dealt with the seriousness it deserves.

Protected areas are governed by strict environmental legislation, including the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) and the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act (NEMPAA), 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 could result in criminal prosecution, substantial fines, imprisonment, civil liability for damages caused, and administrative sanctions.

“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.”

Louw says 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. We are looking for this individual, and he will face the music.”

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 says gate officials seen on the video encouraging and supporting this behaviour will also face consequences.