Two Mozambican nationals have been arrested in connection with the murder of renowned Protea bass angler John Wickham in the popular Mpumalanga town of Dullstroom late last year.

Wickham was shot and killed by robbers on November 26, while protecting his wife Magda from two armed invaders at their holiday cottage. He was struck at least three times while fighting off their attackers.

He collapsed outside the cottage and was rushed to Belfast Hospital, more than 30km away from Dullstroom, by friends who had gathered at the guesthouse where the SA Bass Angling management committee met to plan their activities for 2024.

The first suspect was arrested in earlier this month, followed by the arrest of the second suspect in Cullinan this week. They are suspected to be in the country illegally.

A firearm, believed to be the murder weapon, was recovered and has been sent for ballistics analysis.

Wickham’s loved ones heaped praises on the arresting officers for the sterling detective work that resulted in the breakthrough.

The suspects are expected to appear in court on murder, weapons and immigration charges.