Two Mozambican nationals, aged 25 and 43 respectively, were arrested for the possession of stolen vehicles in the Kruger National Park on Christmas Day.

Mpumalanga police spokesperson Brigadier Selvy Mohlala says: “They entered the park via Numbi gate on the suspicion of avoiding police operations on the N4, and possibly aimed at exiting the park either via Malelane or Komatipoort gates.”

Mohlala explains that a tracking company alerted the police about one of the vehicles.

“Both Toyota Hilux extended cabs were reported stolen in Delmas and Daveyton this month. The stolen vehicles were already fitted with false registration plates when they were found,” he adds.

The suspects are expected to make their first court appearance tomorrow.

Mohlala says the police cannot rule out the possibility of adding other charges as the investigation continues.

The Mpumalanga police commissioner, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Manamela, hails the arrests and assured the safety of patrons in national parks.

“Our members are deployed in all corners of the province. Tourists’ and locals’ safety will remain our top priority,” concludes Manamela.