Five arrested after 31-year-old allegedly forced into black car and found dead in Bloemspruit

Five people have been arrested after a 31-year-old man was allegedly forced into a black vehicle following an argument in Phase 7, Bloemspruit, and was found dead hours later, Free State police said.

What happened

Police said the incident took place in the early hours of Sunday after the victim, who was drinking with friends, got into an argument with a group of strangers. The suspects reportedly forced the victim into a black vehicle and drove away with him, according to Free State police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Thabo Covane.

Discovery of the body

At about 6am the man was found lying on his back in a street in Phase 7. He had multiple stab wounds to his face and deep wounds to his left cheek. A large rock and a small spanner were found near the body. Paramedics declared him dead at the scene.

Investigation and arrests

A dedicated task team led by Bloemspruit detectives was established to follow up on leads. Their investigation led to the arrest of five suspects aged between 21 and 34, Covane said.

“The swift apprehension of these suspects sends a clear message that we will not tolerate lawlessness or the brutalisation of our citizens. My career path speaks for itself; I cannot tolerate those who think they can evade the authority of the state,”

said Free State police commissioner Lieutenant-General Thabang Solomon Lesia, who commended the task team for the rapid response.

Next steps

The suspects remain in custody and are expected to appear in court soon on charges of murder and kidnapping.