Limpopo – Two bodies believed to be those of missing tourists were discovered floating near Crooks Corner in the northern part of the Kruger National Park, prompting Limpopo police to launch a manhunt for suspects linked to the killings and the hijacking of the victims’ vehicle.
According to the South African Police Service, the bodies of a 71-year-old white man and a white woman, whose identity is still being confirmed, were found on Friday afternoon near the confluence of the Levubu and Limpopo rivers under the Masisi policing area in Vhembe District.
Police said the pair had reportedly arrived at one of the camps in the park on Sunday, 17 May, travelling in a green Ford Ranger double cab. They were last seen on Wednesday morning at the Pafuri picnic site before they disappeared.
A search operation was launched after the pair failed to return.
“On Friday afternoon, 22 May 2026, tourists discovered two bodies floating at Cross Corner on the banks of the Levubu River near the intersection of Limpopo River and immediately alerted the police,” SAPS said in a statement.
Members of the police, Emergency Medical Services, SANParks and the Border Management Authority responded to the scene.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the male victim sustained stab wounds to the upper body, while the female victim also suffered severe upper body wounds allegedly inflicted with a sharp object.
Police confirmed that the green Ford Ranger believed to have been used by the victims is missing.
Authorities have since opened two murder cases as well as a hijacking case for further investigation.
Limpopo Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe said experienced provincial investigators had been mobilised to track down those responsible.
“Hadebe has assured the public that maximum resources have been mobilised to ensure that those responsible are traced and brought to justice,” SAPS said.
Police said investigations are continuing in collaboration with SANParks officials.
Anyone with information that could assist the investigation has been urged to contact investigating officer Lieutenant Colonel Rodney Ndou on 082 807 2666 or 082 414 2481, call Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or use the MySAPS app anonymously.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
