A 43-year-old Ermelo man, Goolam Docrat died in the Ermelo Provincial Hospital on Monday night after being found with extensive burns on his body alongside the N17 toll road between Ermelo and Bethal.
It is believed he had been doused with petrol and set alight in the early hours of Monday morning.
According to reports, a passing motorist found the badly burned Mr Docrat next to the road and took him to hospital where he was admitted and placed under extensive care. He later succumbed to his wounds.
The events leading up to Mr Docrat’s death are still not clear, however it is believed he was hijacked while on the way to early morning prayers at the mosque.
Police spokesperson for Ermelo, Capt Carla Prinsloo said the motive for the attack on Mr Docrat is not known.
She said that at some stage Mr Docrat had provided contact details of family members to staff at the toll gate. His vehicle, a white Nissan NP400 was found near the toll gate.
A case of murder is being investigated.
Police have appealed to the community to assist with any information that could lead to the arrest of the suspect or suspects.
The investigating officer, Capt J.J. Mahlangu can be contacted at 017 819 2321 or 802 373 8389.
