The victim identified himself as Mokobi Masisi. The 38-year-old was found lying near a supermarket with a stab wound above his left collar bone after detectives were summoned to a scene in Kotze Street on Saturday, 29 November.

His family provided initial medical treatment while waiting for an ambulance. He was later taken to hospital where he succumbed to his wounds

Taxi altercation

Preliminary investigations revealed the victim had been involved in an argument with three passengers on a taxi while they were traveling from Welkom to Wesselsbron. Surveillance footage collected from a nearby business shows two men and a woman having an altercation with the victim after they got out of the vehicle.

One of the suspects is seen to be stabbing the victim with a sharp object during this confrontation, which led to the fatal injuries reported by the responding officers.

Public information

As the woman may be able to assist with the police investigation, she’s been officially identified as a person of interest in this matter.

Police have urged anyone with information to contact Det. Sgt. Bongani Mana on 062 102 8139 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Alternatively, an anonymous tip-off may be sent through the MySAPS app.

Meanwhile, Welkom police are urgently calling on the public to assist in the search for a 32-year-old. Simba David Maphosa was reported missing under concerning circumstances on Thursday, 12 March.

He was last seen at around 10:00 in Church Street, Doorn. At the time of his disappearance, he was performing his duties as an electrician, said Free State police spokesperson Sgt. Mahlomola Kareli.

He had left his post to purchase electrical materials. He and a colleague had agreed to meet in Doorn after the colleague fetched workers from Thabong.

When the other man returned, he discovered the bakkie they had been using to transport work materials parked at the scene with the vehicle’s keys still in the ignition, but there was no sign of Maphosa.

Simba David Maphosa was reported missing under concerning circumstances. Photo: SAPS

Despite efforts by local authorities and community members, he’s still not been found. The investigation remains ongoing as police follow every available lead to ensure his safe return.

Maphosa is described as being dark in complexion and of medium build, with short hair. When he was last seen, he was dressed in a black T-shirt and black short pants.

Anyone with information may contact Det. W/O Jerry Lenyane on 083 426 8343 or call Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Anonymous tip-offs may be shared with the MySAPS app. Any detail, no matter how small it may seem, could be vital.

All information will be treated with the strictest confidentiality. The public is reminded there is no waiting period to report a missing person.

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