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The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Mr Willie Aucamp, has learned of the tragic discovery of the bodies of two tourists in the northern section of the Kruger National Park (KNP).

According to the management of the KNP, a search operation was launched on the evening of Thursday, 21 May 2026 after camp staff noticed the tourists had not returned to the camp they were booked in.

The bodies were discovered on Friday, 22 May 2026 near a river area by other tourists, who alerted SANParks’ Rangers. The Rangers also established that the vehicle the tourists had been travelling in was missing from the scene.   

The Minister has engaged with SANParks’ leadership to ensure that there will be continued cooperation with the South African Police Services (SAPS’) investigation into this tragic incident. “On behalf of SANParks and the Department, we extend our sincere condolences to the family of the victims during this difficult time,” said Minister Aucamp.

“The SAPS and SANParks have located and notified the family of this tragedy,” added Minister Aucamp.

Out of respect for the family and to allow SAPS’ investigation to proceed without interruption, no further information will be provided at this stage.

Issued by the department of Forestry, Fisheries and the environment.