Man who went viral for reckless driving in Kruger Park apologises
The driver shared his apology on social media.
Social media content creator Petrus Janse van Rensburg has officially apologised after his reckless driving in the Kruger National Park went viral and sparked immense backlash.
SANParks shared a video of "reckless and dangerous" driving involving a red Mercedes-Benz convertible.
Park officials called on the public to help track down the young man seen in the footage, who has now been identified as Janse van Rensburg.
In an apology video posted to his Instagram page, the influencer claimed he has a deep-rooted love for the park, calling it one of his favourite places on Earth.
He added that since he was young, he had a “deep respect” for the wildlife and the people who protect it.
He went on to promise that his future visits to any national park would show the necessary respect for the environment.
“I apologise. My goal has always been to help young South Africans build something for themselves, not to set the wrong example. I’ll do better.”
Watch here:
In the initial videos, a gate guard seemed to encourage him to show off the car’s speed, and many social media users are calling for the official to face consequences as well.
Janse van Rensburg has asked the public to leave the staff member out of it.
“I completely understand why you guys are upset, but please just leave the guard out of it. That SANParks guard told me to give the car some petrol after I exited the gate. This has nothing to do with her,” he said in a separate clip.
According to Maroel Media, despite the public apology, SANParks spokesperson Reynold Thakhuli made it clear that a social media post is not enough to clear his name.
“Too little, too late,” Thakhuli said.
“We are still prosecuting him to the fullest extent of the law.”
The park authority is reportedly pursuing action against both Janse van Rensburg and the person who filmed the video.
Watch the original clips here:
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Image: Supplied/ SANParks