SOMERSET WEST – The week-long search for missing hiker Itumeleng Mekoa has ended after his body was discovered in Helderberg Nature Reserve on Friday 10 July.

Warrant Officer Suzan Jantjies, Somerset West police spokesperson, confirmed an inquest has been registered for further investigation into the 37-year-old’s death.

Mekoa went hiking alone on Saturday 4 July. While on the walk he remained in contact with a friend via WhatsApp, but when communication suddenly stopped, friends became deeply concerned. Further alarms were raised after he failed to report for work.

Authorities were notified, prompting an immediate search response. An official missing person’s docket was opened at the Somerset West Police Station on Tuesday 7 July.

An intense large-scale multi-agency search and rescue operation was launched in the reserve (“Search intensifies for 37-year-old hiker Itumeleng Mekoa in Helderberg Nature Reserve“, DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette, 8 July).

Information about the discovery and the circumstances surrounding his death is limited.

*This is a developing story.