DECOMPOSED BODY FOUND NEAR CHURCH IN THERESAPARK!

Police have launched an investigation after a decomposed body of an unidentified black male was discovered near Empower Church at the corner of Thelma Street and Willem Cruywagen Avenue in Theresapark.

The grim discovery, on Thursday, 14 May 2026 at 12h30, was reportedly made by community members to a security company who noticed a strong foul smell coming from a nearby open area before alerting authorities.

Emergency services and police later arrived at the scene, where the badly decomposed body was found.

According to Ward98 Councilor, Mickey van der Westhuizen, paramedics on the scene, there are no signs of foul play, and it appears the man passed away from natural causes. It is believed that he may have been homeless.

“Our thoughts are with the deceased and anyone who may have known him,” said Van der Westhuizen, who unfortunately on Saturday reported that he was hospitalised

The independent Ward98 councillor candidate, Thabo Moroane, said South Africa is a country in crisis.

“We must rise to solve our problems,” said Moroane.

Police have since opened an inquest docket while investigations continue.

Residents in the area expressed shock and concern following the discovery, with many saying the area has become vulnerable and wouldn’t even be surprised if it’s a criminal activity, and illegal dumping.

Some community members gathered near the scene as forensic teams worked to remove the body for further examination.

Authorities are expected to rely on post-mortem results and possible identification processes to determine how long the body had been lying there.

Police have appealed to anyone with information regarding missing persons or suspicious activities in the area to come forward and assist with investigations.

The identity of the deceased has not yet been released pending further investigations and notification of next of kin.