LIMPOPO – Detectives in Lebowakgomo have intensified efforts to trace those responsible for the death of a 57-year-old shepherd whose body was discovered in a shallow grave in Nkotokwane village, Ga-Mphahlele. The grim discovery was made on the morning of Friday, July 11.

Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, the spokesperson for the police, says that the man, a Lesotho national, was reported missing on Wednesday (July 9) after he did not return from taking livestock to graze in the surrounding fields.

Following the missing person report, a search operation was launched in the nearby bushes. During the search, items of clothing believed to belong to the missing shepherd were recovered, including a blue overall, a yellow T-shirt, and a maroon striped shirt.

“With assistance from the police K9 Unit, the search was escalated and eventually led to the discovery of a body buried in a shallow grave on the mountain. Emergency Medical Services and detectives were called to the scene, where the body was positively identified as that of the missing shepherd,” says Ledwaba.

Authorities have withheld his name pending further investigation and formal identification.

Police have opened a case of murder and are appealing to members of the public for any information that could assist in apprehending those responsible.

Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact the investigating officer, Sergeant Michael Magadani, on 072 029 7499, or to reach out via the nearest police station, the Crime Stop number 086 001 0111, or the MySAPSApp.