The lifeless body of an unidentified man, seemingly to be homeless, was discovered next to the Oak Centre in Ermelo in Mpumalanga early this morning (June 19), reports the Highvelder News.

Members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and forensic investigators attended the scene shortly after the discovery was reported. Police on the scene said efforts are under way to identify the deceased, while the circumstances surrounding his death are being investigated.

The man was found on a sidewalk alongside the building. Although the area is partially obscured by trees and ground-cover vegetation, the body lay in an open space adjacent to a pedestrian walkway. The section is separated from the main shopping centre by palisade fencing, making it largely out of view from the shopping centre, parking areas and nearby roadway.

The deceased 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.

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