The DA in Limpopo was shocked and saddened about the brutal murder of two people in the Kruger National Park on Friday 22 May 2026.
An elderly couple, Ernst and Dina Marias, property owners adjacent to Hoedspruit who have recently registered to vote there, met their untimely fate near Crooks Corner in the northern section of the Park.
We extend our condolences to their family, friends and their community, who are still reeling from shock.
Hoedspruit residents and visitors like to visit the Park, but will be hesitant following this heinous incident.
This incident could have far-reaching impacts on our tourism sector. Tourism, along with agriculture and mining are the backbone of Limpopo’s economy and its future development.
South Africa has a crime pandemic, it’s devastating impact on personal freedom, dignity and economic development, and the urgent need to bring crime in all its forms to a halt.
The Limpopo crime statistics for the 4th quarter 2026 indicates that there were only 4 murders less than during the same period last year; almost 2 people are murdered in Limpopo every day- one murder is one too many.
The DA calls upon the Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, to act swiftly to track down, apprehend those responsible, and to ensure thorough investigations that will ensure a conviction.
Without safety, Limpopo cannot grow. Businesses cannot flourish, young people cannot build futures, and communities cannot live with dignity.