In the Free State, Harrismith police are investigating after the body of an unidentified man was discovered at a construction site near Makgolokweng Village on Thursday (1/10). Construction workers reportedly discovered the body at about 13:50 inside a shack used to store concrete pipes. 

The man, believed to be about 35 years old, was found partially concealed beneath a stack of concrete pipes. Police and emergency personnel removed the pipes to gain access to the body.

“Preliminary observations indicate the body may have been placed there some days before it was discovered,” said Free State police spokesperson Mmako Mophiring. “The deceased sustained an open wound to the neck, as well as visible bruising to the head and buttocks.

“His identity is not known at this stage, and efforts are underway to establish his identity and notify his family. A murder case has been registered for further investigation. No suspect has been arrested at this stage.”

Anyone who may have information that could assist the police in identifying the deceased or lead to the arrest and successful prosecution of the suspect or suspects is requested to contact the Harrismith Detective Service, Capt. Vusimuzi Zwane, on 060 976 4290, or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

Meanwhile, in the Northern Cape, Roodepan detectives are investigating the discovery of the body of a woman, 31, in a shallow grave in Lerato Park. The body was discovered inside a shack on Wednesday (30/9) at about 16:30. Police said the woman was reportedly last seen in July.

A family member reported her missing at the Roodepan police station on Saturday, 26 September, after becoming concerned about her whereabouts. The family member reportedly returned to the shack on Tuesday, but found it locked.

“On Wednesday (30/9) she returned to the shack with a community member and opened the door to the dwelling,” said Northern Cape police spokesperson Cherelle Ehlers. “They noticed the ground was loose and discovered the shallow grave. No arrest has been made at this stage, and extensive police investigations are underway.”

DA Northern Cape provincial chairperson Lisa Schickerling said the discovery in Lerato Park, alongside other reported cases of gender-based violence, highlighted the continued threat faced by women and children in the province. She called for additional resources for specialised Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences units, as well as stronger forensic capacity and crime intelligence.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame dg

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