Two suspects have been arrested in Mozambique after the murder of Mossel Bay couple Dina and Ernst Marais in the Kruger National Park.

The Kruger National Park murder arrests follow a cross-border investigation involving South African police, Mozambican authorities, SANParks and other partners. The couple’s stolen Ford Ranger was recovered in Mozambique before the arrests.

Two suspects held after cross-border investigation

Police in Limpopo said the suspects, aged 32 and 33, are Mozambican nationals. They were arrested in Mozambique in connection with the deaths of Dina Marais, 73, and Ernst Marais, 71.

The couple, from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape, entered Kruger National Park on 17 May 2026 to celebrate Dina’s birthday. They were reported missing on 20 May at the Pafuri picnic site.

Their bodies were found on 22 May near Crooks Corner, where the Levubu and Limpopo rivers meet in the far north of the park. Their green Ford Ranger double cab was missing.

According to Limpopo police spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba, the vehicle was recovered on 26 May 2026 in Chókwè, Mozambique. Police said the recovery led to the first arrest in Chókwè on 1 June, followed by a second arrest in Xai-Xai, Gaza province, on 2 June.

Extradition process expected after arrests

The suspects face two counts of murder and hijacking. Police said more charges may follow as the investigation continues.

The source report said the suspects were expected to appear in court in Maputo. In addition, Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Minister Willie Aucamp said South Africa would start a formal extradition process so the suspects can stand trial in South Africa.

Aucamp said he had engaged the Departments of International Relations and Cooperation and Justice about securing the suspects’ return. He also thanked SANParks, SAPS, Mozambican authorities and conservation partners for their work.

Officials praise cooperation

Limpopo Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe said the arrests marked a major step in the investigation. She said the case showed the value of cross-border cooperation against violent crime.

SAnews also reported that Mozambique’s Serviço Nacional de Investigação Criminal, the Wildlife Justice Commission and Kruger National Park Ranger Services were involved in the operation.

The Kruger National Park murder arrests bring a key development in a case that has drawn wide public attention. However, police said the investigation remains active.