A major breakthrough has been made in the investigation into the brutal murder of an elderly couple whose bodies were discovered near Crooks Corner in the Kruger National Park last month.
Limpopo police have confirmed the arrest of two Mozambican nationals, aged 32 and 33, in connection with the murders of the couple, aged 71 and 73. The arrests were made in Mozambique following a coordinated cross-border investigation involving the South African Police Service (SAPS), Mozambican law enforcement authorities, SANParks and other stakeholders.
The couple was 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.
Tragically, their bodies were discovered the following day near Crooks Corner, where the Levubu and Limpopo rivers meet in the northern section of the Kruger National Park. Preliminary investigations revealed that both victims had suffered multiple stab wounds. Their Ford Ranger double cab had also been stolen.
The investigation gained momentum when the vehicle was recovered in Chókwè, Mozambique, on 26 May. Police say the recovery led to the arrest of the first suspect in Chókwè on 1 June, while a second suspect was apprehended in Xai-Xai, Gaza Province, a day later.
The suspects are expected to appear before a court in Maputo and are facing two counts of murder and hijacking. Investigators have not ruled out the possibility of additional charges as the case progresses.
Limpopo Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe praised investigators and all agencies involved in the operation, describing the arrests as a significant breakthrough in the case.
“The arrests mark a significant milestone in the investigation and demonstrate the effectiveness of cross-border cooperation in combating serious and violent crime. We extend our appreciation to the Mozambican law enforcement authorities, SANParks and all role players whose efforts contributed to this breakthrough,” said Hadebe.
The case has sparked widespread public interest due to the shocking nature of the crime and its occurrence within one of South Africa’s most renowned wildlife conservation areas. Meanwhile SANPARKS says the incident is the first of its kind in a over a century.
The arrests have brought renewed hope that justice will be served for the slain couple and their family.
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