In Conversation With Brigadier Donald Mdhluli
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A search operation has been launched following the disappearance of a helicopter inside the Kruger National Park. The aircraft went missing on Monday, 06 April 2026 while conducting a routine investigation into a report regarding a discovered carcass.
The helicopter was carrying four occupants: a pilot, two SAPS investigators, and an Environmental Crime Investigator. The team departed at approximately 09h00 but did not return as expected.
Efforts to establish communication with the crew were unsuccessful, due in part to poor signal and the possibility that the helicopter was flying at low altitude. Attempts to reach the occupants via mobile phones and other communication channels also failed, prompting concern later in the evening.
In response, another helicopter equipped with night vision capabilities and drones were deployed to assist in locating the missing crew. Adverse weather conditions forced the helicopter to withdraw, but drone operations continued overnight.
The helicopter was carrying four occupants: a pilot, two SAPS investigators, and an Environmental Crime Investigator. The team departed at approximately 09h00 but did not return as expected.
Efforts to establish communication with the crew were unsuccessful, due in part to poor signal and the possibility that the helicopter was flying at low altitude. Attempts to reach the occupants via mobile phones and other communication channels also failed, prompting concern later in the evening.
In response, another helicopter equipped with night vision capabilities and drones were deployed to assist in locating the missing crew. Adverse weather conditions forced the helicopter to withdraw, but drone operations continued overnight.
