Exhumation uncovers mass pauper burials in Mookgophong

MOKOPANE – A family’s search for closure has revealed more than they expected, after the body of their missing son – who had died in a road accident – was discovered to have been buried as a pauper, sparking a broader investigation into burial practices in Mookgophong.

The Mahwelereng police were recently approached by the family, who had been desperately searching for their 32-year-old son, unaware that he had died in a vehicle accident on the N1 near Mookgophong.

A culpable homicide case had been opened at the Mokopane Police Station, but due to the man’s unidentified status, his body was buried as a pauper.

Thanks to meticulous police work, including fingerprint and DNA analysis, the body was eventually identified.

The family subsequently requested an exhumation so they could give their loved one a dignified burial and finally achieve closure.

The exhumation process, which began on May 5, led to an unintended discovery: over 40 unidentified bodies had been buried in a clustered and unregulated fashion, in clear violation of standard protocol.

Members of the forensic department and police investigators were present during the exhumation, which required court permission.

Although the task was difficult, emotionally taxing, and technically demanding, the correct body was ultimately located and handed over to the family.

In response to the disturbing findings, provincial police commissioner Lt Gen Thembi Hadebe has ordered a further investigation.

“This is highly unusual and concerning. The matter is now in the hands of the relevant Department of Health and the local municipality, who are working closely with the police to get to the bottom of it,” she said.

No arrests have been made at this stage.