The police in Bethal, along with the Bethal Forensic Pathology Unit, are asking the community for help in identifying human remains that have been kept at the government mortuary since June 2024.

According to available information, human remains along with pieces of clothing were discovered by a cattle herder in a field near Ongesien Farm, between Bethal and Kriel, while herding livestock on the afternoon of June 13, 2024.

The concerned herder immediately notified the police, who responded to the scene. Upon arrival, officers were led to the location where they found a skull, lower jaws, and bones, along with clothing items including a navy blue jacket, black and white pants, a blue belt, a blue/black and yellow Kaizer Chiefs T-shirt, a maroon mask, black socks, and black boots. A crutch was also found at the scene.

The police notified the Local Criminal Record Centre, and Sergeant Gabisile Mdluli, a forensic field worker, attended the scene to photograph the remains. Forensic pathologist, Bakkie Jele also responded and collected the remains.

The remains have since been kept at the Bethal government mortuary. DNA tests were conducted with a family from a nearby farm, but the results did not match, making it difficult for the police and forensic pathology unit to release the remains from storage.

Police are therefore requesting assistance from the public in identifying the human remains. Anyone with a missing loved one is encouraged to visit the Bethal government mortuary and contact the Office of Forensic Pathology for DNA testing and identification.

Enquiries can be directed to:
* Detective Andreas Strydom at 082 923 1592
* Bakkie Jele, Forensic Pathologist, at 073 700 1363.

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