A helicopter carrying four individuals, including two investigators from the South African Police Service (SAPS) and an Environmental Crime Investigator, was found safe in the expansive Kruger National Park after going missing on Monday, 6 April, Cape {town} Etc reports.
All occupants are reported to be unharmed, marking the end of a tense search operation that began after communications with the aircraft were lost.
The helicopter vanished shortly after taking off at 9 am, embarking on a crucial mission related to an investigation concerning a carcass discovered within the park.
When the aircraft failed to return as scheduled, concerns were raised, and authorities immediately initiated emergency protocols.
With the region known for its challenging communication landscape, initial attempts to reach the helicopter crew proved unsuccessful, leading to fears that the plane was flying at a low altitude, which further complicated contact efforts.
By dusk, it was clear that a search operation was imperative, prompting the mobilisation of resources.
Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, the Acting Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga, commended the relentless dedication of the search team.
‘Even on a public holiday, our committed members are executing their duties without hesitation. We will leave no stone unturned in our efforts to locate the missing members,’ he stated.
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The search operation gained momentum as police announced the deployment of multiple helicopters and drones equipped with night vision technology, although inclement weather temporarily halted the airborne search.
Nevertheless, drones continued to scour the dense bush overnight until the crew was finally spotted the following morning. Rescuers reported that the group landed safely in a remote area and were unable to navigate through the thick foliage surrounding them.
Early Tuesday morning, the search team, aided by a helicopter from SANParks, saw the stranded crew waving for assistance. Upon rescue, authorities confirmed that all four individuals were safe and in good health.
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