Body found in Kruger National Park after illegal fishing search
Three other suspects have been charged following a night patrol operation against illegal fishing.
Field rangers in the Kruger National Park (KNP) have retrieved the body of a man from Mestel Dam following a four-day search.
The discovery was made on Monday, August 31, after rangers searched for the man who allegedly fled into the water during an operation on Friday, August 28.
Night patrol nets three suspects
According to KNP general manager of communications Rey Thakhuli, field rangers on patrol in the Pretoriuskop section of the park were alerted to illegal fishing activities at Mestel Dam at about 02:00 on August 28.
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“Upon responding to the scene, rangers allegedly found four individuals using fishing nets, which are prohibited within the KNP. During the operation, three suspects surrendered and were arrested, while a fourth suspect fled and entered the dam,” said Thakhuli.
He said an immediate search was launched, but despite extensive efforts by SANParks field rangers and other stakeholders, the fourth individual could not be located.
Search operations continued daily both inside and outside the park as officials attempted to trace the missing suspect.
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Thakhuli confirmed that the three arrested suspects were subsequently handed over to SAPS and formally charged in connection with the alleged illegal fishing activities in a protected area.
Police investigate discovery at Mestel Dam
On Monday, August 31, field rangers conducting the ongoing search reported seeing what appeared to be human remains in Mestel Dam.
“SAPS and relevant authorities were immediately notified and responded to the scene,” said Thakhuli.
The circumstances surrounding the man’s death have not yet been confirmed, and authorities are expected to conduct further investigations to establish his identity.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson Colonel Mavela Masondo confirmed that a body had been found at the dam. He said police would provide further details at a later stage as investigations continue.
SANParks expressed its appreciation to all officials and stakeholders involved in the search and response efforts.
The incident highlights the risks associated with unauthorised activities inside protected areas, particularly at night and around water bodies.
