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.”