Kruger National Park officials have confirmed that a suspected missing helicopter has been found with all four crew members safe.

The incident unfolded on Monday, 6 April, when the helicopter crew, who were supporting an anti-poaching operation in the Park, landed in a dense area of bush.

The crew were deployed to assist with a crime scene investigation following the discovery of rhino carcasses. These include two members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) Forensics, a SANParks Environmental Investigator, and the private pilot.

Preliminary reports indicate that after the helicopter landed, the team reportedly became disoriented due to the thick bush.

It is further understood that the GPS device ran out of battery power, resulting in the team being unable to relocate the helicopter.

SANParks Head of Communications, JP Louw, says efforts to re-establish contact with the crew were successful this morning, Tuesday, 7 April.

“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.”

The South African Institute of Taxation (SAIT) has welcomed the appointment of Dr Ngobani Johnstone Makhubu as the next Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service.

Announced on 2 April 2026 in Pretoria, the appointment follows a unanimous recommendation by a panel convened by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, and chaired by former minister Nhlanhla Nene.

Dr Makhubu will take over from outgoing Commissioner Edward Kieswetter, beginning his five-year term on 1 May 2026. His appointment by Cyril Ramaphosa is in line with the SARS Act and forms part of a structured succession plan stemming from the Nugent Commission of Inquiry into governance at the revenue service.

The Presidency and SARS leadership say the transition reflects both continuity and an opportunity to strengthen the institution as it navigates an increasingly complex and digital tax environment.

Experienced leadership

Dr Makhubu brings more than 17 years of senior leadership experience across the public and private sectors. He has served as SARS Deputy Commissioner for Taxpayer Engagement and Operations since 2023 and has helped shape the organisation’s strategic direction since 2020.

He holds a PhD in Leadership, a Master’s in Business Leadership, as well as degrees in Electrical Engineering and Economics.

Strong backing from SARS and the industry

Outgoing Commissioner Kieswetter has welcomed the appointment, describing Dr Makhubu as “eminently qualified” and deeply familiar with SARS operations.

Kieswetter says he has worked closely with Makhubu and is confident he will deliver on the critical task of strengthening the state by ensuring effective revenue collection.

SAIT CEO Professor Keith Engel also congratulated Dr Makhubu, while acknowledging the progress made under Kieswetter’s leadership in rebuilding SARS.

Engel says while challenges remain, including managing national debt and expanding the tax base, there is confidence that Dr Makhubu is well positioned to take SARS forward.

READ: SARS surpasses R2 trillion in annual tax collection milestone

The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has alerted consumers to the recall of certain Jaguar Land Rover Defender and Jaguar I-PACE vehicles due to potential safety defects that could pose risks to drivers and passengers.

The recall affects a limited number of 2026 model Land Rover Defender vehicles, which were sold between November 2025 and February 2026 through authorised dealerships across the country.

“According to the supplier, the third-row lower seat belt anchorage bracket may contain a weld stud of insufficient strength due to material contamination during manufacturing. This defect could prevent the seatbelt from working correctly in a crash, increasing the risk of injury to occupants,” the NCC said.

In a separate recall, certain 2019 to 2021 Jaguar I-PACE vehicles, sold between June 2017 and June 2021, have been flagged for a potential issue with the high-voltage battery pack.

“In certain circumstances, the battery may experience thermal overload which may result in smoke or fire,” the NCC added.

The NCC has urged affected vehicle owners to take immediate action.

“Owners of the affected vehicles are urged to take their vehicles to the nearest authorised Jaguar and Land Rover dealerships for repairs. The necessary repair work will be carried out at no cost to the consumer.”