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On Wednesday, the 13th November 2013, a day visitor to the lookout point close to the famous suspension bridge in Tsitsikamma was nearly raped. A South African tourist guide from local tourist operators rescued the victim.
Once alerted, the rangers went on full alert to try and find the suspect.
The staff in the Tsitsikamma section of the Park has since sent out more rangers to patrol regularly in the area and other seemingly hidden places in the Park.
In addition, guides who are members of the community were trained to come alongside visitors to the Park who may be hiking or walking on nature trails alone.
Despite the incident, SANParks has reassured prospective visitors of security plans underway for this upcoming season. They include approaching law enforcement agencies and the Police to be more present and visible in and around the Park this upcoming holiday season. 'We have added a number of rangers in areas along the trails to ensure the safety of all guests to the Park' says Tsitsikamma Park's Senior Section Ranger, Owen Govender.
Visitors are also advised to not hike alone for the moment and partner up with someone or a group.
Rangers and police are still on the lookout for the suspect who attempted to rape a day visitor on Wednesday.
