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The lifeless body of an unidentified man, who police at this stage believe may have been homeless, was discovered next to the Oak Centre in Ermelo this morning.

Members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and forensic investigators attended the scene shortly after the discovery was reported.

Police officers on the scene indicated that efforts will be made to identify the deceased.

The circumstances surrounding his death are being investigated.

The man was found on a sidewalk alongside the building.

Although the location is partially obscured by trees and ground-cover vegetation, the body was in an open area adjacent to a pedestrian walkway.

The section is separated from the main shopping centre area by palisade fencing.

Due to the location of the discovery, the area is not easily visible from the shopping centre, parking areas or nearby roadway.

The deceased was a black male. He was wearing a dark blue jacket, an orange T-shirt with a printed design and grey-and-white checkered trousers. He was barefoot.

Police have appealed to members of the public who may be missing a relative, friend or acquaintance matching the description of the deceased to come forward.

Anyone with information that could assist in identifying the man or locating his family is urged to contact Ermelo SAPS.