The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Mr Willie Aucamp, is pleased to confirm the arrest of two suspects in Mozambique in connection with the brutal murder of two South African tourists, Dina and Ernst Marais, in the Kruger National Park nearly two weeks ago.
“We said that these criminals would be apprehended, and that is exactly what has happened,” said Minister Aucamp. “I would like to thank all of those who have worked tirelessly and collaboratively from the onset to secure this breakthrough.”
The arrests are the result of effective cross-border cooperation between:
Serviço Nacional de Investigação Criminal (SERNIC), Mozambique’s agency responsible for investigating serious and organised crime;
The Wildlife Justice Commission (WJC); and
Kruger National Park Ranger Services, led by the Regional Ranger for the Nxanatseni (Far North) Region, together with rangers from the Pafuri Section.
It is understood that the suspects have confessed to the crimes, and that the vehicle belonging to Mr and Mrs Marais has been recovered.
“South Africa will now start the formal extradition process to get the suspects to South Africa to stand trial for this heinous crime,” Minister Aucamp said. “I have engaged with my colleagues in the Departments of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) and Justice to emphasize the importance of securing the suspects’ return to South Africa to face the full might of the law.”
The Minister has also expressed his appreciation to the dedicated personnel at the South African National Parks (SANParks), South African Police Service (SAPS), Mozambican authorities, and conservation partners for their exceptional commitment and cooperation, which were instrumental in achieving this outcome.
Minister Aucamp reiterated that criminal activity will not be tolerated in South Africa’s national parks and called on communities and law enforcement agencies to continue working together to safeguard these protected areas.
“While the Marais family has suffered a devastating loss, I hope that these arrests will provide some measure of comfort to them as they continue to navigate this difficult journey,” said Minister Aucamp.
The SAPS may be contacted for further information about the investigation.
Enquiries:
Mr Zolile Nqayi: Director of Communication and Advocacy on
Email: znqayi@dffe.gov.za
Cell: 082 898 6483.
Rey Thakuli: General Manager Communications (Kruger National Park)
Cell: 073 373 4999
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