A grim discovery has cast a dark cloud over Muraga village, where a body believed to be that of missing resident Mashudu Mugwedi (33) was found hanging from a tree at a local farm outside Thohoyandou.
The decomposed body was discovered on Tuesday, 14 April, after a farm caretaker followed a foul smell he initially thought came from a dead animal, only to stumble upon the scene.
Mugwedi had been missing since 6 April. His disappearance triggered a search by family and community members, but no trace of him was found until the discovery.
His sister, Fhumulani Mugwedi, said the last time they saw him, he showed no signs of distress.
“We had supper together at my house as siblings and he was his usual happy self. There was nothing that showed he had any problems,” she said.
She said she rushed to the farm after receiving news of the discovery and managed to identify the body despite its advanced state of decomposition.
“I recognised him by his toes and a traditional bangle he always wore,” she said.
The discovery came shortly after Limpopo police issued a missing person’s report on Mugwedi. Although the body was in a state of decomposition, it is believed to be his. Forensic DNA testing will, however, be conducted to confirm the identity.
Local traditional leader Vhamusanda Vho Ntikedzeni Muraga Mphahuli expressed shock, saying the community is struggling to come to terms with the incident.
Vhembe police spokesperson Captain Vuledzani Dathi confirmed that a body had been found.