GEORGE NEWS - George detectives are probing the death of a 23-year-old man, Jethro Joseph, whose body was found with multiple injuries in an open field near PW Botha Boulevard.

According to police spokesperson Sergeant Christopher Spies, the deceased was found by a passer-by on Wednesday, 6 January at about 11:30.

“A case of murder was opened and the circumstances surrounding his death are under investigation,” said Spies. “An autopsy to determine the cause of death will be conducted later.”

“Six suspects were taken into custody, but were released (Thursday 7 January) because they cannot be linked to this incident at this stage.”

An appeal is made to the public to come forward with any information that could assist the police to bring the perpetrators to book.

Anyone with information may contact the investigation officer Warrant Officer Jerome Malan at the George Detectives Branch at 044 803 4715.

Packet of chips
News of the man’s death spread like wildfire in the Borcherds community, where word on the street has it that the deceased was killed over a packet of chips he allegedly stole from a store. This, however, is unconfirmed.

Community members in Borcherds became unsettled and allegedly threatened the owner of the store, whom they believe is involved in the matter.

“Police reinforcements were dispatched to Rand Street as well as the Conville policing precinct where a group of people became violent,” confirmed Spies. 

“Public order police as well members from neighbouring police stations later dispersed the group and order was restored. A case of public violence was opened and one person was taken into custody. The investigation into both incidents continues.”

The Station Commander of Conville, Colonel AB Kriga, condemned the vigilante attacks. He also appealed to the public not to take the law into their hands, but to allow the police to conduct their work without any fear or favour.

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