Poachers allegedly torch Mpumalanga luxury lodge out of revenge

Bongani Mountain Lodge suffered irreparable damage in the fire, which is alleged to have been started as an act of revenge by poachers.

The lodge, situated in the Mthethomusha Game Reserve on the southern border of the Kruger National Park, is an upmarket game lodge which belongs to the aha hospitality group. 

The property offers luxury accommodation, excellent game viewing and spectacular 360-degree views from its chalets which are located on a rocky mountain top.

Watch a video of the lodge and its chalets here:

LODGE BURNS TO THE GROUND

The lodge was completely destroyed in the fire this past weekend. No injuries or casualties were reported.  All of the staff were safely evacuated from the premises during the fire. Fortunately, no guests were staying at the lodge when the fire gutted the entire property.  

“I would say there is about 100% damage to the lodge. Everything was burnt to the ground,” the lodge’s director, Steffen Schneier, told Tourism Update.

POACHERS ALLEGEDLY STRIKE BACK

The entire lodge has been ruined in a fire which is suspected to be a retaliatory act by people who were allegedly shot at by the reserve’s anti-poaching teams during anti-poaching efforts. The attackers also allegedly set the rangers’ accommodation units alight.

“The anti-poaching unit was attacked and there is a rumour that, during that attack, the rangers shot one of the attackers,” Schneier said.

He added this rumour was unconfirmed and that the rangers denied having shot anyone.

SUSPECTED CASE OF ARSON

Schneier said a case of arson had been opened and investigations were being carried out.

“It was [allegedly] arson and the case is under investigation.”

The lodge will not be able to host guests due to the extensive damage caused by the fire. No reservations will be taken until further notice.