Two Mozambican nationals nabbed in connection with Kruger Park couple's murder

Two Mozambican nationals, aged 32 and 33, have been arrested in connection with the murder of an elderly South African couple whose bodies were discovered near Crooks Corner in the Kruger National Park last month.

The arrests follow a joint cross-border investigation involving the South African Police Service, Mozambican law enforcement authorities, SANParks and other stakeholders.

The victims, aged 71 and 73, were reported missing after they were last seen at the Pafuri Picnic Site on 20 May 2026. A search operation was launched when they failed to return, leading to the discovery of their bodies the following day near the confluence of the Levubu and Limpopo rivers in the Vhembe District.

Police in Limpopo said the preliminary investigations revealed that both victims had suffered multiple stab wounds. Their Ford Ranger double-cab vehicle was also missing, prompting police to investigate charges of murder and hijacking.

The breakthrough came after the victims' stolen vehicle was recovered in Chókwè, Mozambique, on 26 May. The recovery led to the arrest of the first suspect in Chókwè on 1 June, while the second suspect was apprehended in Xai-Xai, Gaza Province, a day later.

The suspects are facing two counts of murder and hijacking, although police have indicated that additional charges may be added as the investigation progresses.

The pair were expected to appear in court in Maputo on Wednesday.

Limpopo Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe praised investigators and all agencies involved in the operation, describing the arrests as a significant milestone in the case.

She said the breakthrough highlighted the importance of cooperation between South African and Mozambican authorities in tackling serious and violent crime, and thanked all role players whose efforts contributed to the arrests.