Who are the bandits in ultimate safari?

In "Ultimate Safari" by Nadine Gordimer, the bandits represent the chaotic and violent elements of society that emerge during periods of political and social upheaval in South Africa. They symbolize the threats faced by the characters as they navigate their journey through a dangerous landscape, reflecting the broader struggles of individuals in a lawless environment. The bandits serve as a catalyst for the story's exploration of fear, survival, and the loss of innocence in the midst of turmoil.