The identity of a man whose body was recovered from a contaminated stream in Melville earlier this month remains unknown, with Brixton SAPS awaiting fingerprint results that could help establish who he was.

The body was recovered on August 9, after divers from Johannesburg Water policing and diving services were deployed to a drowning scene near the corner of Carlow Road in Melville at about 16:30. The unidentified man was retrieved from the stream and handed over to Brixton SAPS members at the scene. An inquest docket was opened as investigations into the circumstances surrounding the death continue.

Read more: Police recover unknown man from contaminated Melville stream following reported drowning 

Brixton SAPS provided an update on August 19 to the publication, saying the body had undergone a post-mortem examination and that no visible injuries, such as knife or gunshot wounds, had been found. The death certificate described the condition as decomposed, according to Brixton SAPS.

Fingerprints have since been submitted in an attempt to establish the man’s identity, with police still waiting for the results. The body remains at the Johannesburg mortuary while the investigation continues.

Following the incident, Johannesburg flying squad media liaison Raymond Sambo urged members of the public to exercise caution around open water. “People entering dams, rivers, or other bodies of water for recreational or other activities are advised to wear life jackets, while parents and guardians are urged to ensure children are supervised around open water and understand the associated dangers.”

Also read: Police launch search after reported drowning at Westdene Dam

Anyone who witnessed the incident, or has information that could assist the investigation, can contact the relevant police station or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

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