A decomposed body of an unknown male was found in the Namahadi River near Clubview in Phuthaditjhaba on Thursday afternoon (11/6). Police say officers received a report at approximately 15:00 from a community member who noticed a body floating on the surface of the river.

Members of the Phuthaditjhaba Police Search and Rescue Unit, assisted by Maluti-a-Phofung Municipality Fire and Rescue Services, responded to the scene and successfully retrieved the body from the water.

The decomposed body of an unknown male was found in the Namahadi river near Clubview in Phuthaditjhaba. Photo: SAPS

Free State police spokesperson Warrant Officer Mmako Mophiring said the deceased had been wrapped in a blanket and tied to a stone with wire.

“The body was in an advanced state of decomposition, making it impossible at this stage to determine whether there were any visible injuries.”

Police have opened a murder case and are working to establish both the identity of the deceased and the circumstances surrounding his death. 

Authorities have appealed to anyone searching for a missing male relative to contact the Phuthaditjhaba detective service. Information that may assist investigators can also be reported anonymously through the Crime Stop hotline.

Meanwhile, police in Bloemfontein are investigating the death of an unidentified woman whose body was discovered in an open field in Ipopeng. Members of the Kagisanong police station responded to a complaint at about 09:50 on Tuesday after reports of a body lying next to a stream.

Upon arrival, officers found the body of an unknown female. Emergency medical personnel attended the scene and declared her dead. 

Free State police spokesperson Sgt Mahlomola Kareli said preliminary assessments revealed no visible injuries on the body. The woman was wearing a white T-shirt with blue floral patterns and black boots.An unidentified woman's body was discovered in Ipopeng. Photo: Facebook

A post-mortem examination will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death, he said.

“The identity of the deceased remains unknown at this stage and police are appealing to any member of the community who may have a missing family member matching this description, or anyone who possesses information regarding what might have transpired, to come forward,” Kareli said.

Anyone with information related to either case is urged to contact the investigating officers or provide information anonymously through the Crime Stop hotline on 08600 10111 or via the MySAPS App.

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