South Africa – A German tourist was shot and killed in an attempted carjack in Mpumalanga according to South African news reports. The four German tourists were heading to Numbi Gate in the Kruger National Park, notorious for its crime levels. The tourists from Germany were traveling in a Hyundai H1 on Numbi Road en route to Numbi Gate at Mdluli Safari lodge. They were then stopped by three armed suspects who were driving a VW Caddy.
According to reports, the suspects allegedly instructed the German tourists to open the doors of their vehicle, but when the driver reportedly locked all the doors, one of the suspects shot him in the upper body through the window. It is further said that the victims’ vehicle drove in reverse for about 100 meters before crashing into the wall of Heroes Academy. Unfortunately, the driver died on the spot as a result of the shooting. Suspects drove off without taking anything from the tourists, reports said.
Minister of Tourism Lindiwe Sisulu expressed her sorrow at the man’s murder and offered his family condolences, urging law enforcement to act.
” I condemn this murder and robbery in the strongest terms and call for harsh punishment of those responsible,” Sisulu said in a statement.
German tourist killed: Impact on the region from
Commenting on twitter, former Zimbabwean tourism minister, Dr. Walter Mzembi feared lack of security hurt international tourism prospects as tourism and security is of paramount importance. ” Next is a negative travel advisory by Germany, just after wrapping up international Tourism Month, September,” he said.
A negative impact to destination South Africa will see ripple effect to neighboring destinations such as Zimbabwe’s tourism. Zimbabwe receives more tourists from its door neighbor which is the largest tourist source market, contributing 30% of total arrivals in 2017. A gateway between these two destinations streamlines international travels for those who have enjoyed and want access to some of southern Africa’s most memorable destinations.
Tourism is among South Africa’s key economic drivers and has been seeing an increase in people visiting the country. With its abundance of wildlife and pristine natural beauty, South Africa is a popular destination and receives a lot of international tourists, including many German visitors each year.
However, South Africa has been grappling with a surge in gun violence and soaring rates of crime. With high unemployment and with the highest level of wealth inequality this adds to a myriad of challenges affecting the country.
