Evidence at the scene indicates that Charles Moropa was murdered. His bruised and bloodied body, covered with a blanket, was found next to a road in Emthonjeni Township, Machadodorp at 06:30 on September 2.
Some community members are now accusing police in the area of failing to attend to the scene after being informed about the incident.
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A spokesperson for the provincial police, Colonel Donald Mdhluli, said that upon their arrival, they found the motionless body of a male, covered with a blanket. He was declared dead by responding paramedics. “Preliminary investigations indicate that shoelaces might have been used to strangle him. His body also had some bruises, his T-shirt was torn and there was some blood next to the body,” he said.
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Mdhluli added that the deceased has been identified by his family but his age was not specified. A murder case was opened but no one has been arrested so far. The police are calling on members of the public who may have information that leads to an arrest to come forward. They can contact the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111, or send information via the My SAPS app.
Mdluli said allegations of a police delay to attend to the murder scene are also being investigated. “Appropriate action will be taken against those who failed to perform their duties mandated by the South African Constitution,” he concluded.
