RESIDENTS in Merebank are still reeling from shock after a pensioner aged 82 was found dead at her house on Monday afternoon (March 30).

It is suspected that Indrawathy Rampersadh was strangled, and her body was discovered lying beside her bed in her bedroom.

According to the police, her grandson who made the discovery reported finding a school tie fastened around her neck. This led them to suspect that the cause of death may have been strangulation.

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Spokesperson for PT Alarms Dhevan Govindasamy said Wentworth police, forensic pathology services, EMRS ambulance and PT Alarms’ tactical team responded swiftly.

Ward 68 committee member for safety, health and security Sharin Rajman expressed her concerns about the safety of elderly people in the community.

“It’s sad our elderly people become targets of crime; the problem is our elderly are too trusting and caring. She was a very loving, caring and giving person. It is very sad that she had to lose her life in this manner,” said Rajman.

She appealed to the community to know their neighbours and foster strong relationships with them.

“In most cases the elderly are alone at home, so it is important that we look out for one another. If you employ anyone, whether a domestic worker or gardener, always obtain their ID and a contact number. For the safety of our families, we should avoid hiring people directly off the street and instead go through a reputable agency; the additional cost is worthwhile in the long run,” said Rajman.

Police spokesperson in Wentworth Captain Mbuso Gumede said members of Wentworth Vispol were on duty when they received a complaint.

“Upon arrival at the scene, (the grandson) directed the police inside the bedroom where his grandmother was found lying on her side on the bedroom floor. The grandson further said he had found a white plastic packet containing some grocery outside the wall alongside the driveway.

“Vispol members were tasked to search the area, however there were no arrests made. The deceased’s body was taken to Pinetown Mortuary,” said Gumede.

Police have opened an inquest docket.