Two suspects have been arrested in Mozambique in connection with the murder of South Africans, Dina and Ernst Marais, in the Kruger National Park nearly two weeks ago.
This was confirmed in a SANParks statement by Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Willie Aucamp yesterday, June 3.
“We said that these criminals would be apprehended and that is exactly what has happened. I would like to thank all of those who have worked tirelessly and collaboratively from the onset to secure this breakthrough,” he said.
According to the statement, “it is understood that the suspects have confessed to the crimes and that the vehicle belonging to Mr and Mrs Marais has been recovered.”
“South Africa will now start the formal extradition process to get the suspects to South Africa to stand trial for this heinous crime. I have engaged with my 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,” said Aucamp.
The minister also expressed his appreciation to the dedicated personnel at SANParks, the South African Police Service, Mozambican authorities and conservation partners for “their exceptional commitment and cooperation, which were instrumental in achieving this outcome”.
He reiterated that criminal activity will not be tolerated in South Africa’s national parks and called on communities and law enforcement agencies to continue working together to safeguard the protected areas.
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