JOHANNESBURG, May 11 (Xinhua) -- Five of the eleven elephants that strayed into South Africa from Mozambique have been captured and relocated, said South African National Parks (SANParks) on Wednesday.
SANParks said 11 elephants strayed into the country via Eswatini and were roaming the Madadeni area in Mpumalanga Province. The SANParks worked with Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA), using a helicopter, Game Capture trucks, Loading Ramps, and all the other necessary resources required to ensure a safe and successful Game Capture operation.
"This was a difficult and stressful operation, but we are happy at the turn of events and that the animals have been relocated to a safe area away from communities," said Kruger National Park managing executive Gareth Coleman.
The elephants have been released in Mozambique's Shingwedzi Section, North of the Kruger National Park.
"We urge communities to alert officials when they observe animals outside the protected areas to stay away from these animals and allow conservation authorities the space to carry out their duties unhindered for the safety of both animals and humans," Coleman said. ■