By Teboho Moloi
REITZ – Free State police have opened an inquest after the body of an unidentified man was discovered in a river beneath a bridge along the R57 on Thursday, 1 January.
The lifeless body was retrieved from the river, and no visible injuries were observed at the scene.
Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Mmako Mophiring said the body was spotted by a passer-by who was walking along the R57 near the bridge.
“The passer-by noticed the body upon closer inspection and immediately alerted the police,” said Mophiring.
He added that police are appealing to members of the public to assist in identifying the deceased, whose identity remains unknown.
At the time of discovery, the man was wearing blue jeans, a white T-shirt and cream-white tekkies.
Police are still investigating the circumstances surrounding the death, and the cause of death has not yet been determined.
Anyone who may have information that could help identify the deceased or locate his family or next of kin is urged to contact Detective Sergeant Mokoena on 082 301 9538, or alternatively call Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
