By STAFF REPORTER
7 April 2026 – A search has been sanctioned after a chopper/helicopter went missing inside the Kruger National Park with four occupants. The chopper disappeared on 6 April 2026, during an investigation after a report was brought to the attention of law enforcers that there was a carcass that was discovered hence the probe to find out circumstances thereof.
The national police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said the aircraft, which was on this routine operation, had on board a pilot and two SAPS investigators as well as an Environmental Crime Investigator. Mathe said a report indicates that the team departed in the morning around 9am 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.
“All attempts to reach them via 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,” she said.
Mathe further said in response to the situation, another helicopter equipped with night vision capabilities, alongside drones, was swiftly deployed to assist in the search efforts. She added that, unfortunately due to poor weather conditions, the helicopter had to be withdrawn.
“However, the drones continued their search throughout the night, said Mathe.
Meanwhile, the acting Mpumalanga Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, remarked that the committed members were carrying out their duties even on a day that is recognised as a holiday in the country.
“We are committed to leaving no stone unturned in our efforts to locate the missing members. This morning, Tuesday, 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,” he said.
The Guardian 