SANParks to boost security at Kruger during the festive season

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SANParks to ensure safety over festive season

The South African National Parks (SANParks) recently announced that it would be enhancing surveillance at all Kruger National Park (KNP) entry gates over the upcoming holidays.

This will be done as part of the parks body’s Festive Season Crime Prevention Drive.

SANParks said that they would be doing this by increasing spot checks of vehicles inside the park to root out possibilities of contraband as well as to verify occupant identity and booking receipts. Other technologies will include vehicle number plate recognition, remote vehicle monitoring, and radar surveillance.

There will also be increased ranger and security services patrols, as well as the use of dedicated dog units supported by free-running tracking hounds.

“The SANParks Environmental Crime Investigation Unit (ECI) will work with other law enforcement agencies to improve crime intelligence in the surrounding areas. They will be working hard with local communities to create a culture where “no bad deed goes unnoticed”, and criminals are brought to book.” SANParks said.

Visitors are advised to be security conscious when checking in at the gates and ensure their cars are locked whilst checking surrounding areas for signs of any suspicious behaviour.

Day Visitor Quota for KNP

SANParks also recently announced that there would be a day visitor quota in place at all Kruger National Park gates over the festive season.

According to SANParks, visitors should book online ahead of their visit, in order to ensure access to the park. Pre-booking will allow them to secure up to 80% of the Day Visitor Quota per gate. This can be done via SANParks Reservations offices at 012 428 9111 and online at www.sanparks.org.

“The Day Visitor Quota for the Park is a management tool to prevent overcrowding on the roads and facilities; it is applied throughout the year, although we mostly reach carrying capacity during long weekends and school holidays.” SANParks said.