The police responded on Monday (20/4) at 06:30 to reports of a body floating in the river. Upon arrival, emergency members recovered the remains of a black woman estimated to be 30 years old.

According to police reports, the woman’s hands had been bound above her head with cable ties, and her feet were tied with rope. She was wearing white Adidas sneakers and a pink T-shirt with the word Beginners on it. 

The police urge anyone with information regarding her identity or her next of kin to come forward. Phone detective Elias Tshabalala on 082 554 3041 or 082 527 6793, Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or use the MySAPS App.

In a separate case, the Free State police crime detection unit has welcomed the sentencing of Abram Tukula, 32, who was handed an 18-year prison term for the rape of a girl. 

The conviction stems from an incident on 16 October 2018. The court heard Tukula lured the girl, 9, to his house. 

Once inside the house, he overpowered her and committed the assault. The matter was reported to the Kagisanong Police Station immediately after the victim’s parents learned of the ordeal.

The investigation was led by Sgt. Evodia Maseko of the Mangaung family violence, child protection, and sexual offences unit.

Working alongside prosecutor Sheryl Cwele from the NPA, the team secured a guilty verdict and the subsequent 18-year effective imprisonment sentence. Additionally, Tukula’s name will be entered into the national register for sex offenders.

Free State provincial commissioner Lt. Gen. Thabang Lesia commended the investigative and prosecution teams for their work.

OFM News dg