Police officers were dispatched on Saturday (4/4) at approximately 12:19 to Ferreira Hill, near South Park Cemetery, following a tip-off from a member of the public. The individual, who had visited the area for prayer, alerted authorities after discovering the body.

Upon arrival, police found the charred remains of an unknown male inside a hole previously excavated by contractors. It is believed a tyre was used to set the body alight.

Free State police spokesperson sgt. Mahlomola Kareli said the victim is estimated to be between 20 and 25 years old. “The body is burned beyond recognition; next of kin have not yet been identified, and no arrests have been made yet.” 

Public’s help

Police have appealed to the public for assistance. Anyone with information regarding the incident or a missing person matching the description is urged to contact the Kagisanong detective standby number on 082 465 5945.

Meanwhile, in a separate incident on Sunday at approximately 01:00, police responded to a stabbing in Ella Street in the Willows area. Emergency medical services found a male, 26, with a severe stab wound to his back.

The victim was transported to a hospital in a critical but stable condition. Preliminary investigations suggest the attack may be linked to a long-standing feud between members of two rival gangs, reportedly dating back to their high school years. Kareli confirmed arrests are imminent as investigations continue.

In another incident on the same morning, at approximately 07:30, Parkweg police were called to a block of flats in Short Street, also in Willows. Upon arrival, officers discovered the body of a male, 19, who had sustained multiple stab wounds to the chest and abdomen. He was declared dead at the scene.

“The motive for the killing is currently unknown, and no suspects have been arrested yet,” said Kareli. Police investigations into all three incidents are ongoing.

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