Police investigate death of woman found on Illovo Beach

Authorities have launched an investigation following the discovery of a body on Illovo Beach, believed to be that of 35-year-old Janine Chetty, who was reported missing in August.

Chetty, originally from Johannesburg, is presumed to have drowned, and her body was found by community members.

Dawn Gounden of Renegades Search and Rescue says Chetty’s family had reported her missing, with her photo and details circulated to locate her.

“Unbeknown to her family, she had tragically drowned. Our team, which had been asked to assist, identified Janine as the person found on the beach. Her family was notified, and they travelled to Durban to confirm her identity,” Gounden says.

According to a missing persons flyer distributed by her family, Chetty was last seen in Kibler Park, south of Johannesburg, on June 16. She sold her car in July and last spoke to her family on August 25. Gounden expressed deep sympathy for the family, who are struggling to come to terms with her death.

“Janine’s love for travel and her kind-hearted nature will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact. We hope her family finds strength and comfort during this incredibly difficult time,” she says.

Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda confirmed that an inquest docket has been opened at Amanzimtoti Police Station as part of the ongoing investigation.