PHALABORWA – A helicopter reported missing while supporting an anti-poaching operation in Kruger National Park has been located, with all four crew members confirmed safe.

The contracted aircraft was deployed on Monday, April 6, to assist with a crime scene investigation following the discovery of rhino carcasses.

On board were two forensic specialists from the SAPS, a South African National Parks environmental investigator, and a private pilot.

According to a media statement by Sanparks, preliminary information indicates that the helicopter landed in a densely vegetated area, so the team could conduct ground-level assessments.

During the operation, the group became disoriented in the thick bush. Their GPS device subsequently ran out of battery power, leaving them unable to relocate the helicopter.

After spending the night in the bush, the team was spotted on Tuesday morning by a Sanparks helicopter conducting search operations. They alerted the crew by waving for assistance.

The search effort involved both aerial and ground teams and made use of advanced technology to navigate the challenging terrain.

Sanparks has confirmed that all four individuals have been safely recovered and are in good health.