HOEDSPRUIT – Police have intensified investigations following the brutal murder of a Mossel Bay couple, whose bodies were discovered in the northern section of the Kruger National Park near Crooks Corner on Friday, May 22.

The victims, identified as Ernst Marais (71) and Dina (73), had reportedly entered the park on Sunday, May 17, travelling in a green Ford Ranger double cab.

The couple also owned a property in a wildlife estate in Hoedspruit, which was checked during the search, but was found empty.

The couple, well known in the Hoedspruit community, were last seen on Wednesday morning at the Pafuri picnic site.

Concern was raised after the pair failed to return as expected, prompting a search operation involving the police, Sanparks officials, Emergency Medical Services personnel and the Border Management Authority.

Tourists later discovered the bodies floating near Crooks Corner at the intersection of the Levubu and Limpopo rivers and immediately alerted authorities.

According to preliminary police investigations, both victims sustained severe upper body injuries allegedly inflicted with a sharp object.

Police confirmed that the couple’s vehicle, believed to have been used during the trip, is still missing.

The circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear, with police opening cases of murder and hijacking.

Commissioner Lt Gen Thembi Hadebe has since mobilised a team of experienced provincial investigators to track down those responsible. “The police have mobilised maximum resources to ensure that the perpetrators are traced and brought to justice,” Hadebe said.

Sanparks spokesperson Reynold Thakuli said adverse weather conditions in the northern parts of the park complicated search efforts.

Heavy rainfall and flooding reportedly led to several road closures in the area, while a helicopter was deployed to assist in the operation.

The tragic incident has sent shockwaves through Limpopo’s tourism and conservation sectors, particularly as the province prepares for its winter tourism campaign and upcoming centenary celebrations.

The DA expressed concern that violent crime incidents of this nature could negatively impact tourism and public confidence.

DA spokesperson for Transport and Community Safety, Marie Helm MPL, said the murders highlighted South Africa’s ongoing crime crisis. “Hoedspruit residents and visitors enjoy visiting the KNP, but incidents like this create fear,” Helm said.

She added that tourism, agriculture and mining remain the backbone of Limpopo’s economy and warned that safety concerns could affect future growth. “Without safety, Limpopo cannot grow. Businesses cannot flourish, young people cannot build futures,” she said.

MEC for Economic Development, Environment and Tourism, Tshitereke Baldwin Matibe, welcomed the intensified law enforcement response and additional security interventions.

“We welcome the swift response by the police, Sanparks management and all law enforcement agencies involved,” said Matibe.

He said strengthened surveillance systems, increased ranger deployments and enhanced monitoring measures would help restore public confidence and reassure tourists that visitor safety remains a priority.

Police have urged anyone with information to contact Lt Col Rodney Ndou on 082 807 2666 or 082 414 2481. Members of the public can also anonymously provide information through the Crime Stop on 08600 10111 number or via the MySAPSApp.