Officers responded to a complaint about a body seen in the water on Monday (21/7). 

Upon arrival, they discovered the body of a man lying on his back, with half of his body submerged in water. “The man was dressed in a black top and black trousers. The identity and age of the deceased are unknown,” said Free State police spokesperson Sinah Mpakane. 

“Emergency services personnel arrived on the scene and declared the individual deceased.” Police are appealing to anyone who may have information that can assist in identifying the man or provide any leads relating to the circumstances surrounding his death, he said.

Social media users expressed their shock and called for proper security at the site because this is not the first time a body has been found at the site. It is not yet known whether the body of the man who was found was a worker at the site or a community member.

Members of the public are urged to contact the Heidedal detectives on 082 553 6307 or to Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

Meanwhile, Park Road police are investigating an attempted murder case after a victim (21) was robbed and attacked on Sunday (20/7) in Park Road near the stadium swimming pool.

“The victim was attacked by two unknown men who hit him with a blunt object on the head and then stabbed him with a sharp object on the stomach,” said Free State police spokesperson Thabo Covane.

‘Victim was able to escape’

“The assailants then robbed the male of a Huawei Y7 Pro cellular telephone, which belongs to his friend. The victim was able to escape and reported the crime at Park Road Police Station."

The victim was rushed to the local hospital to receive medical treatment, he said. Police have asked any witnesses or anyone with useful information to contact Lt. Col. Lukas van Zyl on 082 525 2603.

[Please note how I’ve shortened this convoluted sentence: Police request that if any member of the public who might have witnessed the incident or has information that can help the police with the investigation in the case, they are requested to contact Lt. Col. Lukas van Zyl on 082 525 2603.]

OFM News/Zenande Mpame mvh cg