Third suspect arrested in Zimbabwe over Kruger National Park couple murders

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed the arrest of a third suspect linked to the brutal murder of a couple in the Kruger National Park last month.

This comes after a cross-border manhunt involving law enforcement agencies from South Africa, Mozambique and Zimbabwe.

In a statement issued on Friday, Acting National Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane praised the regional cooperation between SAPS, SANParks, Mozambique’s Criminal Investigation Directorate (SERNIC), and the Zimbabwe Republic Police, describing the arrest as a major breakthrough in combating transnational crime.

The latest suspect, identified as 26-year-old Mozambican national Macandze Lionel da Marta, was arrested in Zimbabwe after allegedly fleeing Mozambique to evade capture.

According to SAPS, the first two suspects connected to the murders were arrested in Mozambique on June 1 and 2. Authorities also recovered the murdered couple’s vehicle during the operation.

Da Marta is expected to be deported to Mozambique, where he will face murder-related charges alongside the two other suspects.

Police confirmed last week that investigations into the murder of the couple remain ongoing.

The couple were identified as Dina Marais,73, and Ernst Marais, 71, from Mossel Bay.

They entered the park on May 17, to celebrate Dina’s birthday. They were reported missing on Wednesday morning at the Pafuri picnic site.

Their bodies were later discovered floating at Cross Corner on the banks of the Levubu River near the Limpopo River intersection on May 22.

Their vehicle, a double-cab green Ford Ranger, was missing, which prompted police to open a double murder and hijacking case.

Investigators said Ernst sustained stab wounds to the upper body, while Dina also suffered severe injuries allegedly inflicted with a sharp object.

Speaking on the sidelines of the 31st Southern African Regional Police Chiefs Cooperation Organisation (SARPCCO) Chiefs of Police Meeting in Malawi, Dimpane said the arrest sends a strong message to criminals operating across borders.

“This successful arrest underscores the strength of regional policing cooperation. Through SARPCCO, SADC member countries continue to share intelligence, coordinate operations and support one another in ensuring that criminals have no safe haven within our region,” Dimpane said.

She added that the collaboration between SAPS, SERNIC and the Zimbabwe Republic Police demonstrates how united law enforcement efforts are more effective in tackling cross-border crime.

“Our message is clear: criminals will be pursued across borders, and through collective regional efforts, will be brought before the courts to answer for their crimes,” Dimpane said.

Police have not yet released further details surrounding the identities of the murdered couple or the circumstances of the killings.

IOL