Skukuza – Two suspects have been arrested in Mozambique in connection with the murder of South African tourists Dina and Ernst Marais, who were killed in the Kruger National Park nearly two weeks ago.
South Africa’s Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Willie Aucamp confirmed the arrests, crediting cross-border cooperation between Mozambique’s criminal investigation agency SERNIC, the Wildlife Justice Commission, and Kruger National Park Ranger Services led by the Regional Ranger for the Nxanatseni Far North Region, together with rangers from the Pafuri Section.
“We said that these criminals would be apprehended, and that is exactly what has happened,” Aucamp said. “I would like to thank all of those who have worked tirelessly and collaboratively from the onset to secure this breakthrough.”
The suspects are reported to have confessed to the crimes, and the vehicle belonging to the Marais couple has been recovered.
South Africa will now begin formal extradition proceedings to bring the suspects back to face trial.
“I have engaged with my colleagues in the Departments of International Relations and Cooperation and Justice to stress the importance of securing the suspects’ return to South Africa to face the full might of the law,” Aucamp said.
The minister also praised the South African National Parks, the South African Police Service, Mozambican authorities, and conservation partners for their commitment and cooperation in securing the outcome.
Aucamp said criminal activity would not be tolerated in South Africa’s national parks and called on communities and law enforcement to continue working together to protect those areas.
“While the Marais family has suffered a devastating loss, I hope that these arrests will provide some measure of comfort to them as they continue to navigate this difficult journey,” he said.
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