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30 July 2019

Media Release: SANParks responds to a tourist attack in Table Mountain National Park

South African National Parks (SANParks) is saddened by the loss of a 44 year Ukraine tourist who succumbed to his injuries after being stabbed following a mugging while walking alone within the Table Mountain National Park (TMNP).

This according to Norman Johnson, SANParks General Manager for the Cape Region who said the unfortunate incident which happened along East Fort, Hout Bay is now being investigated by the South African Police Services. “As the organisation, we would like to convey our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.”

Johnson further requested various stakeholders to allow for the investigation to unfold without anyone making any inflammatory remarks that could jeopardise the work of the police.

He said TMNP is primarily an open access system with hundreds of places where entry/exit is possible and a whole mountain range to hide away in, therefore the overspill of urban crime is a phenomenon common to all urban national parks like TMNP.

According to information received from the police a 25-year-old suspect was apprehended with the help of the neighbourhood watch soon after the incident… “we would like to commend members of the neighbourhood watch for their swift response leading to the arrest of the perpetrator and call on to other community members to join in the fight against crime on the mountain,” concluded Johnson.

Suggested SANParks safety tips visitors should adhere to:

  • Never hike, run, cycle etc alone.
  • Plan your route from start to end and choose the route according to the ability, fitness and experience of the group. This will prevent potential injury.
  • Inform someone exactly which route you are taking as well as your expected time of return) and stick to this route and plan.
  • Always be prepared for bad weather, i.e. take proper weatherproof clothing even on a sunny day (wind and rainproof); torches – with spare batteries and globes; good footwear – strong boots or shoes with non-slip soles; food; water; a flask of tea or some other beverage; a rucksack to carry it all in – so as to leave your arms and hands free.
  • Undertake your activity with somebody who knows the way and carries a guidebook, map or route description. A registered guide is recommended.
  • Keep to the designated routes on well-used paths. Heed signs advising of danger and do not take short cuts or unknown routes.
  • Leave valuables like cash and cameras behind.
  • Be wary of suspicious persons who may pose as hikers.

Issued By

South African National Parks (SANParks) TMNP Communications

Media Enquiries

Lauren Howard-Clayton
Regional Communications Manager, SANParks
Email: [email protected]
Landline: 021 659 1700; Mobile: 071 115 5843