Update:
Police in Limpopo have apprehended two suspects believed to be involved in the brutal killings of Ernst (71) and Dina (73) Marais, Cape {town} Etc reports.
The couple’s bodies were discovered at Crooks Corner in the Kruger National Park on 22 May 2026, sparking a widespread investigation that united multiple countries in the fight against crime.
The Marais couple was last seen on 20 May 2026 at the Pafuri Picnic Site within the park. Their disappearance raised immediate concerns, leading to a comprehensive search operation that culminated in the tragic discovery of their remains a few days later.
The couple’s Ford Ranger double cab, reported stolen following their disappearance, was recovered on 26 May 2026 in Chókwè, Mozambique, a crucial turn in the investigation.
Thanks to the collaborative efforts of the South African Police Service, Mozambican law enforcement, and SANParks, the first suspect, a 32-year-old man, was arrested on 01 June 2026 in Chókwè.
A second suspect, aged 33, was apprehended shortly after in Xai-Xai, located in Gaza province, on 02 June 2026. Authorities have confirmed that both individuals have been positively linked to the heinous crime.
‘The recovery of the vehicle led to the arrest of the first suspect,’ police officials stated, underscoring the importance of cross-border cooperation in solving this case.
They highlighted that the successful arrests are the result of extensive collaboration between various law enforcement agencies, demonstrating a commitment to ensuring justice for the Marais family.
The tragic murders of the Marais couple have sent shockwaves throughout South Africa, reigniting conversations about safety within national parks and the need for robust measures to protect visitors. The couple, who were known for their love of the outdoors, had been enjoying a peaceful getaway before their lives were so violently cut short.
May 25, 2026: 8am – Mossel Bay couple found murdered in Kruger National Park
What should have been another quiet day in the Kruger National Park has instead become the centre of a deeply disturbing crime investigation, Cape {town} Etc reports.
On Friday, 22 May 2026, the bodies of 71-year-old Ernst Marais and his 73-year-old wife, Dina, both from Mossel Bay, were discovered in the Levubu River, raising grave concerns over safety within one of the country’s most cherished natural reserves.
The Limpopo Police have launched a high-priority investigation into the couple’s murder, with a manhunt underway for the perpetrators.
According to police spokesperson Hlulani Mashaba, initial reports suggest that the couple, who had arrived at one of the park’s camps on Sunday, 17 May, were last seen alive on Wednesday morning, 20 May, at the Pafuri picnic site.
Their absence raised alarms among park officials, leading to search operations that began shortly after they failed to return to their camp.
Tragically, the search concluded with the discovery of their bodies by other tourists floating near the Cross Corner area of the Levubu River.
Preliminary investigations revealed that both victims suffered multiple stab wounds, and their vehicle – a green Ford Ranger double cab – has been reported missing, intensifying the mystery surrounding the case.
The Limpopo Police have confirmed they are pursuing two charges of murder and hijacking, as they gather evidence to support their investigation.
Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has mobilised a team of skilled investigators to ensure that those responsible are swiftly brought to justice. ‘We are committed to unearthing the truth behind this heinous act and reassure the public that every resource is being utilised in the investigation,’ Hadebe remarked.
The circumstances surrounding the Marais couple’s deaths remain unsettlingly unclear. Park officials, alongside the South African Police Service, are working collaboratively to piece together the events leading up to this tragedy.
The management of South African National Parks expressed their shock and sadness at the incident, emphasising the unprecedented nature of such violence occurring within the park’s boundaries.
Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, Willie Aucamp, commented on the tragic occurrence, stating it is the first of its kind in the history of the Kruger National Park.
In a compassionate gesture, the South African National Parks agency has offered its condolences and pledged to assist the family with transportation, accommodation, and repatriation costs as they navigate the aftermath of this heartrending situation.
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Picture: Felix Dlangamandla / Gallo Images
