Police have opened an inquest docket following the gruesome discovery of the decomposing body of an African male, believed to be in his 40s.

The body was found on June 13 by a shepherd in an open veld behind Everite, along Heidelberg Road.

According to police spokesperson Sergeant Tintswalo Ndhambi, officers were immediately dispatched to the scene.

“The deceased was wearing a yellow T-shirt, a denim jacket, and black and red underwear,” said Ndhambi. Due to the advanced state of decomposition, a more detailed description is not possible. The body has been transported to Sebokeng Mortuary.

Anyone with information that could assist police in identifying the deceased or locating his family is urged to contact Detective Sergeant Chawana on 011 903 8205 or 076 152 3207.