The body of the deputy director of the Department of Water and Sanitation, Sello Machitje, has been found after what appeared to be a hijacking and abduction.
Machitje was reported as a missing person a week ago after he left his home in Johannesburg for the Eastern Cape.
A 53-year-old suspect was detained after Machitje’s car was found in his possession. The suspect and the vehicle were found in Alexandra, north of Johannesburg, according to media reports.
Suspect not linked to the murder, investigations continue
Police Colonel Noxolo Kweza, a spokesperson for the Gauteng police, confirmed the matter. She said the suspect has not yet been connected to the death of Machitje. However, he was found in possession of Machitje’s vehicle.
“The family verified the identity of the individual as being Mr Sello Machitje. Investigations are still being conducted. This to see whether there may be a connection between the murder and the individual who was detained for having his car.”
Family spokesperson Kgosi Makgorogo gave details on the matter. He said Machitje left his house for the Eastern Cape at approximately 5pm. This was on July 8, the day of the incident.
His wife and sister were worried since he usually called to confirm his whereabouts. However, on that particular day, he didn’t.
Family got worried when he did not call after departure
His family was prompted to go to the local police station and report him missing. They were given an OB number, which the car tracking company used to find the vehicle. This even though they did not obtain a case number.
“Around five o’clock on Monday, he left his house to travel to the Eastern Cape. His wife tried to call him between 8pm and 9pm. But his phone did not ring,” Kgosi said.
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