Abducted man’s charred remains found near Nzhelele Dam
Police in Vhembe have launched a manhunt after Karel Muthakare’s charred remains were found two days after his abduction.
LIMPOPO – Shock has gripped the village of Makushu DJ after the charred remains of the 31-year-old Karel Muthakare were discovered near Nzhelele Dam on June 8.
Muthakare had been abducted two days earlier, on June 6 while walking home from a local tavern.
According to Vhembe police spokesperson WO Vuledzani Dathi, Muthakare was last seen leaving the tavern with friends when they were confronted by four men travelling in three luxury vehicles.
The men forcibly took Muthakare, and his charred body was later found by passersby near the road.
“A resident alerted the police about the discovery of a body. Officers arrived at the scene and confirmed that the body was that of a man in his 30s. The victim was identified as Karel Muthakare. A murder case has been opened and the motive for the killing is still unknown,” Dathi said.
Police have launched a manhunt for the suspects, who remain unidentified. Authorities are urging anyone with information that could lead to the arrest of the perpetrators to come forward.
Anyone who may have seen or heard anything is urged to contact the investigating officer, Lt Col Musiiwa Dzagana at 082 565 7729, Dathi added.
Local community member Samuel Muthuwafhethu expressed the village’s disbelief over the brutal murder.
“This is the first time something so cruel has happened in Makushu. We are deeply shocked. Whoever did this deserves to rot in jail. We send our heartfelt condolences to the Muthakare family and promise to stand by them during this painful time.”
Muthuwafhethu also described the trauma of identifying the body.
“It was a terrible sight. We could hardly believe it was him.”
