Murder in the Wild: The Kruger Park Tragedy of Ernst and Dina Marais | Episode 51

Murder in the Wild: The Kruger Park Tragedy of Ernst and Dina Marais | Episode 51

Author: Bella Monsoon June 6, 2026 Duration: 28:06
Welcome to Episode 51 of Murder & Mayhem: South African True Crime. About this episode: In May 2026, a retired couple entered the Kruger National Park to celebrate a birthday. They followed every rule. They knew the park well. They never came home. This is the first murder of visitors in Kruger's 100-year history and the story behind it goes far deeper than the headlines. This is a story of true horror. This is the story of the disturbing and tragic murders of Ernst and Dina Marais. For images, sources, and real footage related to this case, please visit my YouTube channel, Bella Monsoon, where this story has been covered in full video format. SHOP the South African Truly Criminal Colouring Book:https://shop.bellamonsoon.com/collections/books Mental Health Resources: If any part of this episode feels triggering, please know that support is available and reaching out is a strength. A full list of international mental health resources can be found at BellaMonsoon.com. If you are in South Africa, you can contact SADAG on 0800 12 13 14. Support the show:Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/BellaMonsoonPayPal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/bellamonsoon Subscribe and follow Murder & Mayhem on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or your favour

South Africa's complex social fabric provides a unique backdrop for some of the most compelling and chilling criminal cases. Murder and Mayhem: South African True Crime goes beyond the sensational headlines, offering a deep and thoughtful examination of these real-life events. Host Bella Monsoon approaches each story not just as a sequence of facts, but as a psychological puzzle, carefully considering the circumstances and motivations that lead to tragedy. Each episode focuses on a single case, unpacking the narrative with a respectful yet unflinching eye. You'll find this podcast is less about the gore and more about the human condition-the pressures, the histories, and the societal fractures that can culminate in violence. Bella guides listeners through these difficult stories with a steady and engaging presence, making complex psychological concepts accessible. The series sits at the intersection of true crime documentary and cultural study, providing context that is specific to the South African experience. It’s for anyone who seeks to understand the 'why' behind the crime, looking into the shadows of human behavior to find meaning in the mayhem. New episodes arrive weekly, inviting you to explore the intricate and often heartbreaking stories that define this genre.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Murder and Mayhem: South African True Crime
Podcast Episodes
Episode 41: Desecrated | The Tragic Murder of Lynette Volschenk [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:58
Welcome to the Episode 41 of Murder & Mayhem: South African True Crime. About the episode: “I am a charming psychopath and grateful to be a clever serial killer”. These are the shocking words of not only an aspiring crim…
Episode 40 | Recorded: The Disturbing Case of Brian Smith [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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Welcome to the Episode 40 of Murder & Mayhem: South African True Crime. About the episode: A picturesque town concealing a seedy underbelly. A seemingly perfect husband hiding dark secrets and desires. Innocent women wit…
Episode 39 | Forsaken: The Murder of Chevonne Rusch [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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Welcome to the Episode 39 of Murder & Mayhem: South African True Crime. About the episode: A tale that although shocking has been all too often heard before. Caregivers who not only abuse their roles but fail to live up…
Episode 38 | Unthinkable: The Heartbreaking Case of Ellen Pakkies [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:40
Welcome to the Episode 38 of Murder & Mayhem: South African True Crime. About the episode: About the episode: It is said that no one can love you, like a mother can. That blood is thicker than water and that family is mo…
Episode 35 | Unjust: The Brutal Murder of Eudy Simelane [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 23:05
Welcome to the Episode 35 of Murder & Mayhem: South African True Crime. About the episode: Imagine being killed for simply living your truth? A talented footballer and a successful woman who captured the hearts of everyo…
Episode 34 | Calamity: The Sizzlers Massacre Tragedy [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 59:28
Welcome to the Episode 34 of Murder & Mayhem: South African True Crime. About the episode: Described as the worst massacre Cape Town and the country had ever experienced, in 2003, 9 innocent men lost their lives in a bru…