Body found burned in Schaapkraal, Philippi

Police are investigating a horrific murder in Schaapkraal in Philippi after a body was burnt beyond recognition, with apparently only the feet remaining.

This is just two days after the SAPS Western Cape Water Policing and Diving Service police divers retrieved the bodies of two boys aged nine and 12 from a dam after they presumably drowned.

Police were called to the scene along Boundary Road on Tuesday, where the body of an unknown man had been discovered.

Police spokesperson, Sergeant Wesley Twigg, explained: “Philippi police registered a murder case for investigation after the body of an unidentified male was found burnt beyond recognition on Tuesday, 10 February, in Boundary Road, Schaapkraal.

“The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation, and no arrests have been made. Anyone with any information about this incident can contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the mobile application MySAPS anonymously.”

On Sunday, the bodies of the two boys were found in a dam at Jim se Bos informal settlement, with an inquest docket opened by police.

Redaa Ameeroedien of the Schaapkraal Safety Forum said the tragic incident highlights the need for more public facilities.

The area is the same location where residents have begun a petition calling on the City and its ward councillor to provide immediate action to a growing vagrant encampment along Boundary and Schaap Road, citing environmental and safety concerns.