A Russian couple’s trip to the Kruger National Park turned deadly on November 5 when attackers ambushed them and killed the husband on the N4 between Valataki AH and Ekandustria. They have been identified as Anatoly Nizovtsev (66) and his wife as Elena Nizovtseva (62).

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According to the Russian Embassy, the couple had arrived in Johannesburg earlier that day and were travelling by car towards the park.

“At approximately 22:00, in the Ekandustria area, the Russian nationals were forced to stop, reportedly to change a tyre,” the embassy said. “After getting out of the vehicle, they were attacked by unidentified assailants, who robbed the couple of their personal belongings before opening fire on Anatoly.”

He sustained fatal gunshot wounds and died at the scene.

Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Isaac Mudau confirmed that a murder case has been opened and no arrests have been made. Police were unable to confirm whether the tyre was damaged by a route-spiking device or if any belongings were stolen. The embassy added that Nizovtseva has been provided with the necessary consular assistance and that no hospitalisation was required.

“The embassy is currently assisting her with the expedited processing of the necessary documents to arrange the cremation of her late husband, the subsequent transportation of his ashes to Russia, as well as her earliest possible return to her homeland.”

Night-time travel warning

With increased travelling during the festive season, TRACN4 spokesperson Solange Soares warned motorists against driving on national highways after dark.

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“Spiking is used by organised crime syndicates that target drivers on the roads at night. It is difficult to patrol the roads since these perpetrators move frequently between different locations,” she said.

Soares advised motorists with a damaged tyre to continue driving slowly to a well-lit area or the nearest petrol station, saying that even if they drive on their rims, they should continue slowly to a safe location, and added that tourists or travellers should use the TRAC Assist helpline in emergencies.

The latest incident has raised renewed concerns regarding the ongoing threat crime poses to the regional tourism economy.

Tourism sector calls for security

Kruger Lowveld Chamber of Business and Tourism special attaché Oupa Pilane expressed sadness over the incident.

“We are deeply disturbed by the reported shooting. Although the incident occurred outside Mpumalanga, it directly affects our tourism economy and the confidence of visitors travelling to our province,” he said. “Tourist safety cannot be the responsibility of one province alone. We call on law enforcement agencies to strengthen security along key tourism corridors, particularly the N4, and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.”