A GROUP of anti-stock theft members launched an intensive search for a 44-year-old man who was last seen at his home in Tsheseng Village, QwaQwa in the Free State
The man was reported missing on Sunday, 31 December.
The anti-stock theft unit recovered his body at Matsopaneng section in Tseseng Village on Wednesday, 3 January.
It was in a state of decomposition under a cave with his private parts mutilated.
Warrant Officer Mmako Mophiring said the family was notified and positively identified the body as that of their loved one.
He said a case of murder has been registered.
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"The family came to the police station and alleged their son was last seen at a local tavern and came back home to change into other clothes.
"He was wearing black gumboots, a red cap, a green and grey body warmer, and a green striped T-shirt. He returned to the same tavern carrying two empty bottles of beer, but he never came back home," he said.
The deceased was staying alone in his shack, which is not far away from his parent's house.
The residents called on Police Minister Bheki Cele to send more police officers in the rural areas due to the high level of crime.
Community member James Mokoena said criminals had been terrorising residents for years.
"We've experienced high level of crime. The villagers have been brutalised. We call on Minister Bheki Cele to send new recruits to maintain police visibility in our area and surrounding villages. The level of crime in the villages need urgent attention. We wish police to track down the perpetrators so justice could be served. The foreign nationals are doing as they please here," he said.
The family was never reached for comment.
