By Kopano Dibakwane
The Mpumalanga SAPS(South African Police Service) and the SANParks(South African National Parks) are breathing a sigh of relief after a helicopter that went missing in the KNP(Kruger National Park), on Monday 6 April 2026, with four occupants including the pilot, two Forensic Investigators from the SAPS, and an Environmental Crime Investigator, was finally located successfully on Tuesday 7 April 2026.
The helicopter reportedly went missing at around 9h00 and did not return as anticipated after it was deployed to assist with a crime scene investigation following the discovery of rhino carcasses.
Caption: The helicopter that went missing in the KNP returned safely with all occupants unharmed
Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Brigadier Donald Mdhluldi, said the efforts to establish communication with the helicopter crew yielded no results due to poor signal and it was 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.
“ In response to the situation, another helicopter equipped with night vision capabilities, alongside drones, was swiftly deployed to assist in the search efforts,” said Brigadier Mdhluli.
However, Brigadier Mdhluli said the search helicopter was reportedly withdrawn due to poor weather conditions, but the drones continued the search throughout the night.
“ The helicopter that went missing has been successfully located, with all individuals found alive and unharmed. The group had safely landed in a remote area on Monday, 6 April 2026, but as they attempted to navigate through the thick bush, they could not find the chopper.
“ After spending the night in the bushes, they were spotted this morning by the search team, using a helicopter from SANPARKS, as they waved for assistance. Following their rescue, it has been confirmed that all occupants are safe and in good condition,” said Brigadier Mdhluli.
SANParks spokesperson, JP Louw, said preliminary reports indicate that the helicopter landed in a densely vegetated area to allow the investigation team to conduct on-the-ground assessments.
“ It is further understood that the GPS device ran out of battery power, resulting in the team being unable to relocate the helicopter. Efforts to re-establish contact with the crew were successful this morning. This included aerial and ground search teams, supported by advanced technology to assist in navigating the challenging terrain. SANParks can confirm all four are now safe and healthy,” said Louw.
