The body of an unidentified female was found during a community-led search for 16-year-old Chanelle Plaatjies, who went missing from Paarl over three weeks ago, reports Cape {town} Etc.
According to police reports, the body was discovered wrapped in a black bag buried in the woods near a dam on the outskirts of Paarl’s Allandale Correctional Centre on Monday, 2 June.
‘We can confirm that forensic experts responded to information on Monday, 2 June, which led to the recovery of a body of a victim near a local dam in Paarl policing precinct,’ said police spokesperson Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi.
‘The body is yet to be identified. An autopsy will be conducted to determine the cause of death.’
While DNA testing will need to be conducted to confirm the identity and investigation ensues, local community members – who rallied together to conduct searches following her disappearance – believe the body belongs to the missing 16-year-old after a single shoe, thought to belong to her, was found during the search.
Community members reportedly contacted emergency services after the intensified search led to the discovery of a shallow grave, in which the body was recovered.
‘Information was followed up and a shoe was found near a hole in the ground inside the woods,’ police spokesperson, Brigadier Novela Potelwa, confirmed in a statement.
Chanelle Plaatjies, who was last seen by her mother on Wednesday, 14 May, was only reported missing on Wednesday, 28 May.
‘[The victim’s mother] did not report Chanelle missing then because she usually stays away for long periods but comes back eventually,’ said Potelwa.
As it stands, Paarl police registered a murder for further investigation following the body’s discovery, the circumstances surrounding the missing person’s enquiry remain under investigation until forensic confirmation emerges.
Authorities continue to investigate, urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS app.
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Picture: @safricagenda / X
