EDIT as of 06 March 2025: It has come to our attention that Samara Karoo Reserve does not permit hunting, contrary to information previously available online. At the time of the original publication, there was no clear indication that hunting was not allowed. Now that this has been clarified, we accept that Samara Karoo Reserve does not engage in hunting activities.
The NSPCA confirms that the elephants safely arrived at their destination by 03:30 on Thursday morning, with the Grahamstown SPCA playing a vital role in ensuring their well-being. However, many questions remain regarding the ethical considerations of this translocation. These concerns will be further addressed with SANParks.
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The NSPCA is aware of an incident involving a truck transporting four elephants that overturned on Olifantskop Pass in the Eastern Cape. The elephants were allegedly “donated” from a SANParks reserve to Samara Private Game Reserve, who offers hunting opportunities near Graaff-Reinet.
The Grahamstown SPCA is on-site, ensuring the welfare of the animals, especially as they are trapped inside the truck in 31°C heat.
The NSPCA is informed that two veterinarians, one being from SANParks, are on site. According to reports, the elephants have not sustained visible injuries.
Initial reports indicate that a shift in weight caused the accident.
It would be interesting to know why the elephants (what the government would term “assets”), are being donated to a private game reserve. The NSPCA already has enough concerns and problems about elephants in private game reserves as it stands.
This is a developing situation, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
The NSPCA extends its gratitude to the Grahamstown SPCA for responding beyond its area of operation to safeguard the well-being of the elephants.
Update @ 2025-03-03, 22:28:
The truck carrying the four elephants involved in the Olifantskop Pass accident is now en route to its destination. The Grahamstown SPCA will accompany the transport to ensure the animals’ safety and welfare. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
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