According to local authorities, the women were attacked by a female elephant with a young around 6 a.m. They moved on foot towards a crossing place near the Luangwa River, when they remotely noticed the elephant with her calf. The guides let the group divert, but shortly thereafter the animal stormed at them, reports police officer Robertson Mweemba.
Tourist (68) died who was trampled by a herd of elephants during a night walk
A safari employee, who normally walks behind the group, warned by ‘elephants!’ to call. When the women turned around, the animal already approached them at full speed. The New Zealand woman, who had difficulty walking, was the first to be taken. The guides immediately opened the fire in an attempt to put the attack, but the elephant also managed to reach the British woman.
Despite the shots and injuries to the elephant, both tourists did not survive. They died on the spot. The bodies have been transferred to a local hospital.
Controversial walking safaris
The South Luangwa National Park is known for its large concentration of wild animals. The website of the park warns: “Do not be surprised if elephants walk free through the camp. It is strictly forbidden to get out of your vehicle, unless under the guidance of armed rangers or guides.” Nevertheless, the park also offers guided walking safaris, where tourists go into nature on foot.
Female elephants are known for fiercely protecting their calves and often react aggressively in the event of an alleged threat.
It is not the first fatal incident. Last month a 59-year-old tourist was killed in Namibia, after leaving the car for a toilet visit during a safari and was attacked by a lioness.