South African authorities are helping Russia investigate the murder of tourist Anatoly Nizovtsev

The Russian Embassy reported that South African competent authorities are providing maximum assistance in investigating the murder of Russian citizen Anatoly Nizovtsev, who died on November 5 during an armed attack on a highway while traveling from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park. No suspects have been detained yet; his wife Elena survived and is receiving consular assistance.

Otabek YusupovFirst published on tafs uz 10 November 2026 at 20:362 min read

The key facts

Anatoly Nizovtsev died on November 5 in an attack on a highway in South Africa; his wife survived
The Russian Embassy notes maximum assistance from South African authorities; no suspects have been detained
ATOR urged Russians to avoid independent night trips on South African roads

Progress of the investigation

The authorities of the Republic of South Africa are providing Russian diplomats with maximum assistance in investigating the murder of tourist Anatoly Nizovtsev, however, as of November 10, no suspects had been detained. This was reported to RIA Novosti by the Russian Embassy in South Africa. “We note that the competent authorities of South Africa are providing maximum assistance to the Russian side in resolving all issues related to the tragedy,” the diplomatic mission emphasized. Gauteng provincial police spokesperson Isaac Mahlangu confirmed that the investigation is ongoing; Russian diplomats expect all those involved in the crime to be identified.

Circumstances of the tragedy

The attack took place on November 5. According to Life.ru, Anatoly Nizovtsev arrived in Johannesburg together with his wife Elena, from where the couple set off by car for Kruger National Park. In the evening, the travelers stopped near the settlement of Elandsdrift — reportedly because of a damaged tire. When the couple got out of the car, they were attacked by unknown assailants: the criminals stole the tourists' personal belongings and opened fire on the man. Nizovtsev died at the scene from his injuries; his wife survived. The Embassy is maintaining contact with her and providing consular assistance.

Recommendations for tourists

After the murder of the Russian citizen, the Association of Tour Operators of Russia urged travelers to avoid independent night trips on South African roads. Tourists were advised to use organized transfers, plan their route in advance, and avoid stopping on deserted sections of highways. As of November 10, no detentions of suspects or other developments in the investigation had been reported.