Three Zimbabwean men were found deceased in the Nkomazi River at a game reserve in Elukwatini, Mpumalanga, prompting a full inquest by South African authorities.
Local residents reported the three men missing on Friday after they failed to return from a visit to a nearby game reserve.
Acting on this report, police accompanied the complainants to the reserve.
Rangers revealed that trespassers had been seen entering the grounds about a week earlier, fleeing when approached—though it remains unclear if those individuals are connected to the men.
Divers recovered the bodies from the river. Police noted there were no visible signs of injury. An inquest has been launched to determine the cause of death.
Autopsies and formal identity confirmations are pending next of kin notifications.
Provincial police spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdhluli confirmed that preliminary investigations indicate the deceased were Zimbabwean nationals.
Deputy Provincial Commissioner Major-General Zeph Mkhwanazi has ordered an extensive probe into the circumstances surrounding their deaths, labeling the incident “shocking.”
While the case is still unfolding, the involvement of a game reserve and prior sightings of unauthorized individuals raise questions.
Authorities have not ruled out foul play, but caution that conclusions await forensic results.
This incident adds to growing concern about cross-border safety and the perils associated with game reserve areas.
As the investigation progresses, public interest in uncovering what truly happened remains strong.