Two suspects held in Mozambique over Kruger Park murders, extradition process to begin

Two suspects have been arrested in Mozambique in connection with the killing of two South African tourists in Kruger National Park, the minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Willie Aucamp, confirmed on 3 June 2026.

Arrests, charges and court appearance

The suspects are expected to appear today in Maputo, Mozambique. They are facing two counts of murder and hijacking, and authorities said additional charges will be added as investigations continue.

Official responses and cross-border cooperation

Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, General Thembi Hadebe, welcomed the arrests and highlighted cross-border cooperation.

“The arrests mark a significant milestone in the investigation and demonstrate the effectiveness of cross-border cooperation in combating serious and violent crime. We extend our appreciation to the Mozambican law enforcement authorities, SanParks and all role players whose efforts contributed to this breakthrough,” the commissioner said.

The minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment expressed gratitude for the arrest and gave assurances on justice for the victims’ family.

“I would like to thank all of those who have worked tirelessly and collaboratively from the onset to secure this breakthrough,” Aucamp said.

Suspects’ statements, recovered property and next steps

According to the report, the suspects have confessed to the crimes and the South African Police Service has recovered the vehicle belonging to the deceased couple.

A formal extradition process to bring the suspects to South Africa to stand trial is set to begin. Minister Aucamp said he has engaged colleagues in the Departments of International Relations and Cooperation and Justice to “emphasise the importance of securing the suspects’ return to South Africa to face the full might of the law.”

What investigators have said about the killings

The tourists’ bodies were discovered near Crooks Corner at the intersection of the Levubu and Limpopo rivers within the Kruger National Park on 21 May 2026. Preliminary investigations revealed both victims had sustained multiple stab wounds.

Their vehicle was reported missing, and police opened cases of murder and hijacking. The couple had been reported missing after they were last seen on 20 May at the Pafuri Picnic Site in Kruger National Park, prompting a search operation when they failed to return.

Investigation ongoing

Authorities say investigations are continuing and additional charges may be added as new information emerges.