Missing helicopter found in Kruger National Park search
· The South African
A helicopter carrying four people, including two South African Police Service (SAPS) investigators and an environmental crime investigator, has been found safe in the Kruger National Park after going missing during an operation on Monday.
All four occupants were confirmed unharmed following an extensive overnight search that began after communication with the aircraft was lost.
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Aircraft disappeared during investigation mission
The helicopter reportedly took off at around 09:00 on Monday on a mission linked to an investigation into rhino carcasses discovered within the park.
When the aircraft failed to return as scheduled, authorities raised the alarm and immediately activated emergency search procedures.
Communication difficulties in the remote region complicated early attempts to contact the crew, with concerns that the helicopter might have been flying at a low altitude – a factor that can disrupt radio signals.
Search operation launched
As the day progressed without contact, a full search operation was launched involving multiple helicopters and drones equipped with night vision technology.
Acting SAPS Mpumalanga Provincial Commissioner Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi praised the dedication of the teams involved in the search.
“Even on a public holiday, our committed members are executing their duties without hesitation. We will leave no stone unturned in our efforts to locate the missing members,” he said.
Although poor weather conditions temporarily halted aerial searches, drones continued scanning the dense bush overnight.
Crew located the next morning
Early on Tuesday morning, search teams – assisted by a SANParks helicopter – located the stranded group in a remote area of the park.
The crew reportedly landed safely but were unable to move through the thick surrounding vegetation, leaving them stranded overnight.
Rescuers spotted the group waving for assistance before safely reaching them.
Authorities confirmed that all four occupants were in good health, bringing the tense search operation to a successful conclusion.