By Charmaine Ndlela
A helicopter that went missing in the Kruger National Park on Monday has been located, with all occupants found alive and unharmed.
The aircraft, carrying four people, including the pilot, two SAPS forensic investigators, and an environmental crime investigator from SANParks, disappeared during a crime scene investigation following the discovery of rhino carcasses.
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According to officials, the helicopter had safely landed in a remote, densely vegetated area, but the team became disoriented while navigating through thick bush and were unable to relocate the aircraft.
SANParks said the GPS device also ran out of battery power. The occupants spent the night in the wilderness before being spotted on Tuesday morning.
Search and rescue teams, supported by SANParks, located the group after they signalled for help. A SANParks helicopter was deployed in the operation. Aerial and ground teams were involved in the search.
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SANParks head of communications JP Louw confirmed the rescue.
“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 in good condition,” he said.
Authorities said investigations were continuing.