Police needs assistance solving brutal murder cases involving four bodies in Mthatha

The police in Mthatha is seeking assistance from the community in solving different murder cases.

Four bodies from two different incidents were recovered two days apart in Mthatha.

Warrant Officer Majola Nkohli, police spokesperson, said police were summoned to a complaint of a murder of two people that were burnt beyond recognition inside a bakkie that was found in the bushes in Kaplani village outside Mthatha on Saturday, June 3. 

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the bakkie found at the scene belonged to the Department of Correctional Services. The police opened a case of murder (two counts) for further investigation. The identities of the deceased persons are to be confirmed on completion of the forensic investigation,” said Nkohli.

He added that in another incident police were summoned to a scene after two bodies were found floating in the dam in Kaplani Village in Mthatha on Monday, June 5. They were identified as Lunga Feya (27) and Luthando Thingithingi (34).

According to him the two deceased sustained multiple injuries.

“A case of murder was opened for further investigation. The police are urging anyone with information that could lead to the arrest of suspects in any of the two incidents to contact an investigating team leader on 062 310 2714. The information may also be shared via Crime Stop on 08600 10111.”

Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nomthetheleli Mene has condemned the incidents, and has immediately activated a task team to track, trace and arrest the suspects involved in both cases.

“I have faith in the team, and we will not rest until there is a breakthrough. We appeal to the communities to work with the police and to report any information that can assist in the investigation,” she said.  

Spokesperson for the Department of Correctional Services (DCS), Logan Maistry confirmed that a vehicle belonging to its Community Correctional Office in Mthatha was found torched with two dead bodies inside.

“The torched Isuzu Double Cab was assigned to one of our officials who is suspected to be one of the deceased. The matter has been reported to the members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and investigation is ongoing. An internal investigation has also been instituted,” said Maistry.

ISSUED BY DCS AND SAPS