JUST IN: Helicopter with four people missing in Kruger National Park
· Citizen
A helicopter with four people has been reported missing in the Kruger National Park (KNP).
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Police said the chopper disappeared on Monday, 06 April 2026, during an investigation after a report was brought to the attention of law enforcers that there was an animal carcass that was discovered in the park.
Routine operation
Police spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdhluli said a search has been sanctioned for the chopper.
“The aircraft, which was on this routine operation, had on board a Pilot and two SAPS investigators as well as an Environmental Crime Investigator.
“A report indicates that the team departed in the morning around 09h00 and did not return as anticipated. Some efforts to establish communication with the helicopter crew yielded no results due to poor signal, and it is suspected that the chopper could have been flying low,” Mdhluli said.
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Missing
Mdhluli said attempts to reach the passengers on their mobile phones and other means were unsuccessful.
“It was only in the evening that it was realised that something was wrong, prompting immediate action to locate them.
“In response to the situation, another helicopter equipped with night vision capabilities, alongside drones, was swiftly deployed to assist in the search efforts. Unfortunately, due to poor weather conditions, the helicopter had to be withdrawn; however, the drones continued their search throughout the night,” Mdhluli said.
Duty
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, said the officials were carrying out their duties even on a public holiday.
“We are committed to leaving no stone unturned in our efforts to locate the missing members. This morning, Tuesday 07 April 2026, we aim to resume search operations with an expanded resource base, which includes the deployment of additional helicopters and personnel dedicated to this crucial mission.
“We will continue to search tirelessly until we find our colleagues, remaining hopeful for their safe return, ” said Mdhluli.
Investigations are continuing.
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