Two bodies have been discovered in two days in Mashobote near Schoemanskloof in what police suspect is linked to rival illegal miners.
The first body was discovered on the morning of Wednesday, 30 September by a community member who alerted police. According to police, the identity of the deceased and the cause of death were unknown at the time. A crime scene was activated and forensic experts were called in to process the scene.
Police said a shooting incident allegedly involving illegal miners, known as zama-zamas, was reported in the same area on Monday, 29 September. When police arrived, they found only blood stains. They later recovered two live rounds of ammunition and an empty AK-47 magazine.
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The second body of a male was discovered yesterday at around 06:00 on the side of the N4 Road in Mashobote. The body had multiple gunshot wounds. At the scene, police found multiple rifle and pistol cartridges.
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The deceased is suspected to be a foreign national and his identity is yet to be confirmed. A case of murder has been opened.Police said they cannot rule out that both killings are linked to the ongoing turf war between rival groups of illegal miners in the area.
The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS, Lieutenant General Apaphia Modise, has assembled a team of seasoned detectives to investigate both incidents.
Police visibility has been intensified in the area.Police have urged anyone with information to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or via the MySAPS App.
