Residents in Stellenbosch are reeling in shock after the charred remains of a young girl, who has yet to be identified, were found in Kayamandi.
The body was found in a drain on Tuesday morning near the Azania informal settlement by a man who had gone to relieve himself in the bushes.
Residents said they did not know the girl’s identity, but said she looked to be between 15 and 20-years-old.
Community leader Zola Ndalasi said the discovery in Luyolo Street had caused fear and panic among residents, especially those who do not have toilets.
“Residents came to my house on Tuesday morning to report a burned body. When I arrived at the scene, I discovered a person who was burned beyond recognition.
"I also noticed that she was young,” he said.
“I immediately called the police. Azania does not have toilets, so we don’t know if the girl was killed while going to relieve herself or if she was killed elsewhere and dumped here. This is the first gruesome murder in our community, and I hope it’s the last.”
Ndalasi said so far no one had reported a missing child in the area or nearby communities.
Police spokesperson FC van Wyk said they were investigating a case of murder and a post-mortem would be conducted.
Anyone with information can contact investigating officer Freddie Nel on 084 610 8357.
INVESTIGATE: Van Wyk