POLOKWANE – Following the discovery of a naked, headless body of a 16-year-old female victim, the South African Police Service in Maake has launched a manhunt for the kidnappers and murderers of the victim from Pharare village in the Tzaneen area on Friday 1 May at about 18:00.

According to reports, police received a complaint about a female found deceased in the bush and they immediately rushed to the scene. Upon arrival, police were met by a 17-year-old male who directed them to a nearby bush area where the naked, headless body of the 16-year-old victim was discovered.

Preliminary investigation indicates that the victim and the male witness were walking in Pharare village when they were accosted by occupants of a blue VW Polo vehicle. The suspects, comprising two males and two females, were wearing masks and armed with firearms.

The pair were forced into the vehicle at gunpoint and driven to a bushy area along the road. In the bushes, both victims were forced to kneel. The male sustained knife wounds to his arm and abdomen before managing to escape.

He alerted the victim’s family, who returned with him to the scene and discovered the deceased. Police were then notified, and a search of the scene led to the discovery of the victim’s head buried near the body.

Police have registered cases of kidnapping and murder for investigation, said Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, police spokesperson.

Members of the community who can assist with information are urged to contact the investigating officer, Warrant Officer Golden Shai on 082 465 2996, Crime Stop number 08600 10111, the nearest police station, or the MySAPS App.

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