In a significant development in the investigation into the murders of an elderly couple at Kruger National Park, South African and Mozambican authorities have arrested two suspects in connection with the crime.
Mr. and Mrs. Marais, aged 71 and 73 respectively, were reported missing after they were last seen on Wednesday, 20 May 2026, at the Pafuri Picnic Site in the Kruger National Park. A search operation was launched when they failed to return. On Thursday, 21 May 2026, their bodies were discovered near Crooks Corner, at the confluence of the Levubu and Limpopo rivers within the park, under the jurisdiction of the Masisi policing area in the Vhembe District. Preliminary investigations indicated both victims sustained multiple stab wounds. Their Ford Ranger double cab was also reported missing, prompting police to open cases of murder and hijacking.
A major breakthrough occurred when the victims’ stolen vehicle was recovered on 26 May 2026 in Chókwè, Mozambique. This recovery directly facilitated the arrest of the first suspect, a 32-year-old Mozambican national, in Chókwè on Monday, 1 June 2026. A second suspect, a 33-year-old Mozambican national, was subsequently arrested in Xai-Xai city, Gaza province, on Tuesday, 2 June 2026. Both suspects have been positively linked to the murders.
The arrests are the result of extensive, coordinated cross-border investigations conducted by the South African Police Service (SAPS), Mozambican law enforcement authorities, SANParks, and other role players.
The two suspects are currently facing two counts of murder and one count of hijacking. Authorities have indicated that additional charges may be added as the investigation continues. The suspects are expected to appear in court today in Maputo, Mozambique.
