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- Human remains have been discovered in the Kruger National Park.
- Ranger Checkers Mashego disappeared in the national reserve in Mpumalanga.
- The remains were found near equipment that Mashego would have used as a ranger.
Human remains, believed to be those of a missing ranger, have been discovered in the Kruger National Park (KNP).
The discovery was made Thursday afternoon by a search party looking for the ranger, Checkers Mashego.
He disappeared in the Stolsnek section of the KNP in Mpumalanga during the afternoon of 17 November.
Items and equipment from the South African National Parks (SANParks) used by Mashego were also found near the remains.
“The find area has been cordoned off and is currently being thoroughly searched,” SANParks said.
Police confirmed the remains were found not far from where the 51-year-old field guard was last seen by his teammates a month ago.
It is not yet clear what caused his death, but police coroners and SANParks’ Environmental Investigation Unit are reviewing the scene for more clues that may shed light on what may have occurred.
Police have also collected the remains which have been sent for DNA testing to determine if they are from Mashego, said police spokesman Col. Donald Mdhluli.
However, police have said that the remains are believed to be Mashego’s as they were found near equipment that he would have used.
“An investigation into what actually happened is underway to reveal details about how the victim disappeared,” Mdhluli said.
Meanwhile, SANParks has informed Mashego’s family of the discovery.
Environment, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Barbara Creecy and SANParks Executive Director Fundisile Mketeni have expressed concern and support for the family at this difficult time.
“We can assure the public that we will do everything in our power to support the South African Police Services in their investigation to try to understand what has occurred and to help the Mashego family achieve a closure,” they said in a statement. set.
SANParks also appealed to those who may have information or knowledge about Mashego’s disappearance to contact the police.
