Police in Limpopo have launched a murder investigation after the bodies of two tourists were discovered in the Pafuri section of the Kruger National Park on Friday afternoon.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed on Saturday that the victims – a 71-year-old man and a woman whose identity has not yet been confirmed – were found near Cross Corner, at the confluence of the Levubu and Limpopo rivers in the Masisi policing area of the Vhembe District.
According to police, the couple arrived at one of the camps in the Kruger National Park on Sunday, 17 May, travelling in a green Ford Ranger double cab. They were last seen on Wednesday morning, 20 May, at the Pafuri picnic site before they reportedly disappeared.
A search operation was launched after the pair failed to return.
Their bodies were discovered by tourists on Friday, 22 May, who immediately alerted authorities. Police officers, emergency medical services personnel, SANParks officials, and members of the Border Management Authority responded to the scene.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the male victim sustained stab wounds to the upper body, while the female victim suffered severe upper-body injuries allegedly caused by a sharp object.
Police also confirmed that the green Ford Ranger double cab believed to have been used by the victims is missing. Cases of murder and hijacking have since been opened.
Limpopo Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has assembled a team of experienced provincial investigators to pursue those responsible for the killings.
Hadebe said all available resources have been mobilised to ensure the suspects are traced and brought to justice.
SAPS is working closely with SANParks officials as investigations continue.
In a statement published on its website, SANParks described the incident as unprecedented, saying it was “the first time in the history of the Kruger National Park that an incident of this nature has been reported”.
The conservation authority confirmed that the victims’ next of kin have been informed and said assistance would be provided to the family, including transport to Limpopo, accommodation, and repatriation costs.
Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Willie Aucamp earlier conveyed condolences to the family on behalf of SANParks and the department.
Police have appealed to anyone with information to contact the investigating officer, Lieutenant Colonel Rodney Ndou, on 082 807 2666 or 082 414 2481. Members of the public can also contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or submit information anonymously via the MySAPSApp.
