Residents of Thabong near Welkom in the Free State have been urged to contact police regarding information that could lead to the arrest of a suspect after a grave and a corpse were violated.

The police have since registered a case after a passer-by this week discovered the crime at the Phumlane Graveyard. 

Police spokesperson Stephen Thakeng said on arrival at the scene, members found a bread knife and part of a casket next to the grave.

The motive for the incident is not clear yet. A case was registered for further investigation and the family was assisted to apply for the body to be exhumed.

"The body was taken to the Welkom Forensic Pathology Services. A charge of the violation of a corpse was then added. The knife and part of the casket were seized for thorough investigations to be conducted."

In September 2021, another incident was recorded. This left residents of Welkom traumatised after discovering the graves of their loved ones were vandalised and demolished.

Thakeng added that residents of Thabong are requested to assist in tracing the perpetrators of this heinous crime.

"Anyone with information to trace these suspects can contact Detective Sergeant Moeketsi Sithole of Thabong Detective Services at 082 443 6151, or alternatively, contact the Crime Stop number 08600 10111," he further added. 

The grave of the late Mahlomola Paulus Hantsi that was also violated in 2019 at Odendaalsrus. 

OFM News