The body of the victim covered with a white bag.
The body of a young man believed to be linked to an alleged illegal fishing operation in the Kruger National Park (KNP) has been discovered at Mestel Dam following an extensive search by field rangers.
The man was found on Monday, August 31, three days after he allegedly fled from rangers and entered the dam during an operation targeting illegal fishing.
According to KNP General Manager of Communications Rey Thakhuli, field rangers on patrol in the Pretoriuskop section of the park were alerted to illegal fishing activities at Mestel Dam at approximately 02:00 on August 28.
“Upon responding to the scene, rangers allegedly found four individuals using fishing nets, which are prohibited within the KNP. During the operation, three suspects surrendered and were arrested, while a fourth suspect fled and entered the dam,” said Thakhuli.
An immediate search was launched, but despite extensive efforts by SANParks field rangers and other stakeholders, the fourth suspect could not be located.
Search operations continued daily, both inside and outside the park, as authorities attempted to trace the missing man.
Thakhuli confirmed that the three arrested suspects were handed over to the South African Police Service (SAPS) and charged in connection with the alleged illegal fishing activities in a protected area.
On August 31, field rangers conducting the ongoing search reported seeing what appeared to be human remains in Mestel Dam. SAPS and other relevant authorities were immediately notified and responded to the scene.
Thakhuli said the incident highlights the risks associated with unauthorised activities in protected areas, particularly at night and around water bodies.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson Colonel Mavela Masondo confirmed that a body had been recovered from the dam.
Masondo said the deceased was identified as Sydwell Bongani Sibiya, who was allegedly the fourth person who fled into the dam during the operation.
The three arrested suspects were identified as Donald Mkasi, Senzo Mgodo and Senzo Ngodo. They were charged with trespassing and illegal fishing and were subsequently released on bail by the Mkhuhlu Magistrate’s Court.
Police have opened an inquest docket, while investigations are underway to establish the exact circumstances surrounding Sibiya’s death.
The body is expected to undergo a post-mortem examination to determine the cause of death.
