LIMPOPO – Two Mozambican nationals have been arrested in Mozambique in connection with the murder of an elderly couple whose bodies were found in the Kruger National Park last month.

The arrests are the result of a joint investigation involving the South African Police Service, Mozambican law enforcement authorities, SANParks and other stakeholders.

The victims, aged 71 and 73, were reported missing after they were last seen at the Pafuri Picnic Site in the Kruger National Park on May 20.

Their bodies were discovered a day later near Crooks Corner in the Masisi policing area of Limpopo’s Vhembe District.

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According to police, both victims had sustained multiple stab wounds and their Ford Ranger double cab had been stolen.

The vehicle was recovered in Chókwè, Mozambique, on May 26, providing investigators with a crucial lead.

A 32-year-old suspect was subsequently arrested in Chókwè on June 1, while a second suspect, aged 33, was arrested in Xai-Xai in Gaza Province the following day.

Police said both suspects have been linked to the murders and hijacking and are expected to face two counts of murder and a hijacking charge. Further charges may be added as the investigation progresses.

The suspects were expected to appear before a court in Maputo today (June 3).

Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Willie Aucamp, added that the extradition process has begun for the suspects to stand trial in South Africa. He hopes the arrests will provide some measure of comfort to the Marais family.

Provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe said the arrests demonstrate the value of cross-border cooperation in tracking suspects involved in serious violent crimes and thanked Mozambican authorities, SANParks and all agencies involved in the investigation.

Police investigations are continuing.