For illustration purposes.
Elukwatini police are appealing to the public to help identify the families of two unidentified adults, a man and a woman, who were found murdered in the bushes at Tjakastad, Mbhejeka, near the Nkomazi River, recently.
The bodies were discovered in an advanced state of decomposition, with both victims having sustained gunshot wounds.
Two empty 9mm cartridge cases were also found next to the bodies, raising further questions about the circumstances surrounding their deaths.
Elukwatini police spokesperson Sergeant Thembi Mbokane said investigators were working to establish the identities of the deceased and trace their relatives as the murder investigation continues.
According to Mbokane, the male victim was wearing grey DFX trousers, a blue T-shirt, black and white socks, and black, grey and white Ellesse takkies.
The female victim was wearing a black jersey, a black T-shirt, black leggings and white Nike sneakers.
Police are urging anyone who recognises the clothing descriptions or suspects that a relative may be among the victims to come forward and assist investigators.
Police appeal for information
Investigators are also appealing to anyone with information that could help identify the victims or lead to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the killings to contact the police.
Anyone with information can contact Detective Constable Sifunda on 079 216 4788 or the Elukwatini Detective Standby number on 082 798 0396.
Mbokane said all information would be treated with the strictest confidentiality, and informants could choose to remain anonymous.
Report missing persons without delay
Police have also urged community members to report missing relatives as soon as they reasonably suspect that someone is missing or may have come to harm.
There is no stipulated waiting period before a missing-person report can be filed. Reporting a disappearance promptly can help investigators begin searching and establish a person’s whereabouts sooner.
Anyone who has been unable to contact a relative or has information about someone who went missing under suspicious circumstances is encouraged to approach the nearest police station.
Police hope that assistance from the public will help give the two unidentified victims their names back, reunite them with their families and bring those responsible for their deaths to justice.
