Pafuri Gate
SANParks has outlined a series of risk mitigation measures following the tragic discovery of two tourists in the Pafuri section of the Kruger National Park (KNP) on Friday, May 22.
According to KNP General Manager for Communications, Rey Thakhuli, the incident is unprecedented in the park’s more than 100-year history. Spanning over two million hectares and sharing a 374-kilometre border with Mozambique and Zimbabwe, the park has never recorded a similar occurrence.
The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Willie Aucamp, has personally extended condolences to the victims’ family.
Members of the SANParks Board, executive management, and senior officials from South African Police Service (SAPS) also visited the next of kin to offer support.
The family indicated that the couple were regular visitors to the park who strictly adhered to safety rules.
“Preliminary findings indicate that the missing vehicle did not exit through any of the park’s access gates or international border posts. Rangers tracked tyre marks believed to show a vehicle driven off-road, over a fence, and into Mozambique, although it has not yet been confirmed that these tracks belong to the missing vehicle,” he said
Thakhuli also said while SAPS continues to lead the investigation, SANParks has begun implementing additional safety measures in the Nxanatseni North Region.
These include deploying more rangers and monitoring resources in high-risk areas, as well as enhancing surveillance and early warning systems.
SANParks confirmed that its existing technology played a role in identifying the vehicle linked to the incident, highlighting ongoing investments in advanced systems aimed at combating poaching and improving visitor safety. The organisation plans to further expand its technology infrastructure as part of a long-term modernisation programme.
“Despite the incident, SANParks has emphasised that the KNP remains a safe destination, with robust security protocols in place to protect visitors, staff, and wildlife,” explained Thakhuli
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and cooperation with SAPS, noting that updates will be shared as verified information becomes available.
“We again extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased. Out of respect for the family and to protect the integrity of the investigation, SANParks will not provide further comments at this stage,” concluded Thakhuli.
