Mpumalanga's Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism (DEDET) have openly come forward in the attack of criminals who were reported to be roaming the areas of Sabie. This follows the publication of an alleged robbery of the two German tourists while on their peaceful sleep last Wednesday. It has been reported that two were asleep when "three robbers broke into one of the chalets and fled with cameras, a laptop and the visitors' cash.
The Head of Department, Dr Vusanani Dlamini says this unfortunate and barbaric behaviour continues to tarnish Mpumalanga and South Africa’s image of a tourist destination of choice, and cannot continue unchallenged. "I call upon law enforcement agencies to deal very harsh with anyone caught involved in this criminal activity. The law must take its course and these cruel people should receive the harsh sentences" added Dr Dlamini.
In another incident, an attacker broke in to the house of General Manager of Umbhaba Lodge in Hayzview and held a family at gun point. He was allegedly tight up and managed to break loose and fight them and was shot in the process. The robbers then fled the scene.
"We are confident that the law enforcement agencies will work tirelessly to ensure that those who found guilty of terrorising the business community around the province are brought to book of law. We cannot continue to allow tourism establishment been attacked on regular bases, There will be no mercy for criminals especially those who wants to hamper the progress that has been made by tourism industry in creating job opportunities around the province," said the Head of Department.
"People must be aware that tourism has been identified as one of the drivers of job creation in Mpumalanga’s Economic Growth and Development Path, so if we tarnish our image, then we will continue to have challenges of job creation and fighting poverty", concluded Dr Dlamini.
Contact person:
Mohau Ramodibe
Tel: 013 766 4271
Cell: 082 771 9950
E-mail: mohauram@mpg.gov.za
For media enquiries:
Selvy Mohlala
Tel: 013 766 4132
Cell: 072 167 6149
E-mail: selvy@mpg.gov.za
