Update
MOSSEL BAY NEWS - Two suspects have been arrested in Mozambique in connection with the murder of South African tourists Dina (73) and Ernst (71) Marais.
The couple’s bodies were found by tourists at a lookout point on the riverbank near Crooks Corner in the far northern section of the Kruger National Park on 22 May.
The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Willie Aucamp, confirmed these arrests, saying they form part of a cross-border investigation involving the South African and Mozambican authorities.
According to a departmental statement, the arrests were made through co-operation among Mozambique’s criminal investigation agency (Sernic), the Wildlife Justice Commission, and SANParks’ ranger services.
The suspects have allegedly confessed to the killings, and the couple’s missing vehicle has since been recovered.
The South African authorities are expected to initiate extradition proceedings to bring the suspects back to the country, where they will face trial.
Aucamp thanked all the role players involved, including SANParks, the South African Police Service, the Mozambican authorities and conservation partners, for what he described as their “exceptional co-operation” in securing the breakthrough.
He insisted that criminal activity in South Africa’s national parks would not be tolerated, and called for the continued collaboration between communities and law enforcement to protect these areas.
The police are expected to provide further details as the investigation continues.
Previous articles:
- Bakkie van vermoorde Krugerwildtuin-paartjie gevind, 2 vir ondervraging geneem
- Mossel Bay couple found murdered in Kruger National Park
- Murdered Kruger Park couple had deep love for Mossel Bay
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