Thokozile Mnguni
Two suspects linked to the killing of Ernst Marais and Dina Marais have been arrested in Mozambique following a cross-border operation involving multiple law enforcement agencies.
The arrests came about two weeks after the couple’s bodies were discovered near Crook’s Corner in the northern section of Kruger National Park.
Mozambican police, SANParks, the Wildlife Justice Commission and the South African Police Service were involved in the coordinated investigation.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba said through coordinated cross-border investigations, two Mozambican nationals, aged 32 and 33, were arrested and positively linked to the crime.
Mashaba said the victims’ stolen vehicle, a Ford Ranger double cab, was recovered on 26 May 2026 in Chókwè, Mozambique, and its recovery led to the arrest of the first suspect.
“The recovery of the vehicle led to the arrest of the first suspect in Chókwè on Monday. The second suspect was subsequently arrested in Xai Xai city, Gaza province, on Tuesday,” said Mashaba.
He said last Thursday, the bodies of the deceased were discovered near Crook’s Corner at the intersection of the Levubu and Limpopo rivers within the Kruger National Park.
“Preliminary investigations revealed that both victims had sustained multiple stab wounds. Their vehicle was also reported missing, prompting police to open cases of murder and hijacking for investigation. The suspects are facing two counts of murder and hijacking. Additional charges may be added as investigations continue,” said Mashaba.
The provincial police leadership in Limpopo commended investigators and all stakeholders involved.
“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 police, SANParks and all role players whose efforts contributed to this breakthrough,” said Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe.
Extradition processes are now underway to bring the suspects back to South Africa, where they are expected to face the law.