MURDER SCENE: Kruger National Park, Limpopo: Police here have made a breakthrough in the brutal murder of Mossel Bay couple Ernst and Dina Marais

The bodies of Dina (73) and Ernst (71 were discovered at Crooks Corner in the Kruger National Park on 22 May 2026.

The victims were reported missing after they were last seen on Wednesday, 20 May 2026, at the Pafuri Picnic Site in the Kruger National Park. A search operation was launched after they failed to return.

On Thursday, 21 May 2026, their bodies were discovered near Crooks Corner at the intersection of the Levubu and Limpopo rivers within the Kruger National Park. Preliminary investigations revealed both victims had sustained multiple stab wounds. Their vehicle was also reported missing, prompting police to open cases of murder and hijacking for investigation.

Through coordinated cross-border investigations conducted by the South African Police Service, Mozambican law enforcement authorities, South African National Parks (SANParks) and other role players, two Mozambican nationals aged 32 and 33 have been arrested in Mozambique.

According to the police both have been positively linked to the crime.

The victims’ stolen vehicle, a Ford Ranger double cab, was recovered on 26 May 2026 in Chókwè, Mozambique.

The recovery of the vehicle led to the arrest of the first suspect in Chókwè on Monday, 1 June 2026. The second suspect was subsequently arrested in Xai-Xai city, Gaza province on Tuesday, 2 June 2026.

The suspects are facing two counts of murder and hijacking.

The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, commended the provincial investigators and all stakeholders involved for their dedication and commitment in ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice.