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South African National Parks has responded to the fatal attack on 44-year-old Ukrainian tourist, Ivan Ivanov, who succumbed to stabbing injuries after a mugging in Table Mountain National Park (TMNP).
Norman Johnson, SANParks GM of the Cape Region, said the unfortunate incident, which happened along East Fort, Hout Bay, is now being investigated by the South African Police Service. “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 the investigation to unfold without anyone making inflammatory remarks that could jeopardise the work of the police.
SANParks confirmed with Tourism Update that it was working with the police and has increased visibility in a number of areas in the park. Its K9 unit is also assisting with patrols. As a long-term solution, SANParks has started the process of employing an additional 120 tourism safety monitors, which will be funded by the National Department of Tourism.
Johnson said TMNP was primarily an open access system with hundreds of places where entry and exit were possible and that there was a whole mountain range to hide away in.
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 other community members to join in the fight against crime on the mountain,” concluded Johnson. News 24 has reported that a second suspect has also been arrested.
SANParks also issued a list of safety tips that visitors should adhere to:
Never hike, run or cycle 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 of the exact 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 to leave your arms and hands free.
Undertake your activity with somebody who knows the way and carry 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 shortcuts or unknown routes.
Leave valuables like cash and cameras behind.
Be wary of suspicious persons who may pose as hikers.
Source: tourismupdate.co.za