The South African Police Services (SAPS) in Skukuza is investigating the mysterious death of a man at Kruger National Park, with the body discovered by rangers on Monday, 20 January 2025. The deceased, believed to be in his late 40s, was found with severe injuries to his lower right limb, including part of his leg missing. The circumstances surrounding his death have sparked widespread speculation and concern.
According to Mpumalanga police spokesperson Lt-Col Jabu Ndubane, preliminary investigations suggest the man may have been attacked and killed by wild animals, possibly during poaching activities. “The deceased had already passed away by the time police arrived on the scene,” Ndubane confirmed. While the investigation is ongoing, South African National Parks (SANParks) officials have indicated that a hippopotamus may have been responsible for the man’s fatal injuries.
The deceased man is believed to have been a suspected poacher, with reports revealing that he had a history of previous arrests, including a pending trespassing case. His identity has not yet been released, as his family has not formally identified him. This tragic incident adds to a series of similar events at Kruger National Park, with wild animals having previously claimed the lives of other suspected poachers. In 2021, a suspected poacher was trampled by an elephant in the same park.
The SAPS has urged the public to avoid entering the park illegally, highlighting the risks associated with trespassing in areas where wild animals roam freely.
On social media, many South Africans have reacted to the news, speculating humorously about the bizarre circumstances of the death. Some joked about the man’s missing leg, wondering if the animals were particularly “selective” about their prey. Despite the lighter commentary, the investigation is a sobering reminder of the dangers posed by poaching and the wildlife in protected areas.
