A search is ongoing for a suspect following the tragic deaths of two tourists who were fatally stabbed and their bodies disposed of in waters infested with crocodiles.
Ernst Marais, 71, and his spouse Dina, 73, were exploring the Kruger National Park in northeastern South Africa when they encountered poachers at an elephant crossing.
The elderly couple, who had traveled approximately 1100 miles from their coastal residence, were residing near the game park’s Parfuri Gate in the northern region. Concern arose when they did not return to their lodging on the evening of Wednesday, May 20.
Kruger National Park is a highly popular destination among tourists, attracting around one million visitors annually, including many from the UK, US, and Germany eager to catch a glimpse of the iconic big five animals – lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes.
The lifeless bodies of the couple were discovered by fellow tourists observing a herd of elephants crossing a viewing area. Their bodies were found floating in the river.
Crook’s Corner earned its name in the 1880s as a secluded region where South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique intersect at the junction of the Limpopo and Luvhuvhu rivers. This area was notorious for harboring criminals and was considered a perilous location.
It is suspected that Ernst and Dina were bound and repeatedly stabbed before being dragged to the Limpopo River, also known as the “Crocodile River,” known for its large crocodile population.
South African National Park rangers and law enforcement responded to the incident.
Authorities had been searching for the couple since they were reported missing on Thursday morning.
A source from Kruger National Park stated, “Initially, there was hope that they may have veered off course due to local flooding, but the discovery of two bodies in the river at Crook’s Corner changed the situation. Our rangers found the bodies and alerted the police.”
“They had both sustained severe injuries from a brutal attack and were discarded into the river, likely as prey for the crocodiles. Additionally, their vehicle was stolen, making this a significant incident for us.”
“This uncommon occurrence has deeply impacted us all,” the source added.
Law enforcement is probing two counts of murder and a hijacking case, with no suspects in custody.
A South African police insider suggested that the couple might have encountered poachers unexpectedly, resulting in their tragic demise.
South Africa is known for its substantial rhino population and is a prime target for rhino poaching due to the high value of their horns.
Although authorities make continuous efforts to combat poaching, it remains a significant challenge.
Official data indicated that 352 rhinos were poached in South Africa between January and December 2025.
The police source further mentioned, “Their vehicle could have been used by smugglers to transport any illicit goods they possessed, and there are unguarded routes to cross the river into Mozambique.”
A large-scale manhunt is underway with the assumption that the suspects have fled the Kruger National Park.
