Two people attacked by a leopard at an air force base in Hoedspruit

A member of the South African National Defence Force [SANDF] and one civilian were attacked by a Leopard on separate occasions in Hoedspruit, Limpopo this past weekend.

As the Limpopo Chronicle had earlier reported, a Leopard has been spotted roaming around the streets of Hoedspruit in the Maruleng Municipality. The Leopard has since been caught and has been removed from the area.

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But in a statement by the South African Air Force (SAAF], two people were attacked at the Air Force Base (AFB) Hoedspruit.

“The South African Air Force (SAAF) is aware of the recent attacks involving leopard attacks at Air Force Base (AFB) Hoedspruit during the weekend of 26-28 July 2024,” they said.

“We take these matters seriously and are committed to ensuring the safety of all personnel and families stationed at the base. The safety and well-being of our members are our top priorities, and we are currently conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding these incidents.

“We are collaborating with wildlife experts and local authorities to assess the situation and implement appropriate measures to mitigate future risks. While we understand the concerns raised by this situation, we encourage all personnel to remain vigilant and adhere to safety protocols when engaging with the natural wildlife in the area,” read the statement.

LIMPOPO CIVILIAN ATTACKED BY A LEOPARD IN HOEDSPRUIT

“Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work to ensure a safe environment for everyone at AFB Hoedspruit In response to these incidents, Acting Officer Commanding AFB Hoedspruit, Col E.

“Gherbavaz has mobilised the Base Environmental team to mitigate further risks. Immediate measures include summoning the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) to trace and monitor the leopard and contacting the Limpopo Department of Economic Development Environment.

“Collaboration with Ingwe Leopard Research and wildlife veterinarians is ongoing to ensure the leopard is safely relocated to SAWONG, Phalaborwa.

The welfare and safety of the Drakensig community remain the utmost priority as the SAAF works with wildlife experts to resolve this situation.”