A wave of shock has gripped the community of Giyani after police confirmed a murder investigation and launched a full-scale manhunt following the discovery of 28-year-old Ntalo Chauke’s body in the town’s central business district.

What initially began as a missing person case has now escalated into a homicide investigation, after post-mortem results revealed that Chauke died as a result of violent throat injuries.

Police say the circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, and no arrests have yet been made.

Body discovered near busy CBD landmark

Chauke’s body was found on 24 May 2026 in bushes near the Giyani Central Business District, close to the KFC area at Masingita Mall.

According to police accounts, officers patrolling the CBD were alerted by employees from an engineering company installing Telkom fibre infrastructure in the area.

The workers told authorities that while carrying out their duties, they noticed what appeared to be a person lying in nearby bushes. Upon closer inspection, they discovered an unresponsive male.

The employees immediately raised the alarm after noticing visible bruising around the victim’s neck.

Emergency Medical Services were called to the scene, where Chauke was declared dead on arrival.

From inquest to murder investigation

An initial inquest docket was opened as authorities worked to determine the cause of death. However, the case took a decisive turn following a post-mortem examination.

The results confirmed that Chauke’s injuries were not consistent with natural causes, but rather with deliberate and violent action.

Following these findings, the matter was escalated, and a formal murder case was opened on Wednesday, 3 June 2026.

Suspects still unknown as police widen probe

Preliminary investigations suggest that Chauke was last seen in the company of other individuals before his death. However, police have not yet identified any suspects.

Law enforcement officials are now working to reconstruct his final movements and establish what led to the fatal attack in one of Giyani’s busiest public areas.

Authorities say the investigation remains active and ongoing, with all leads being pursued.

Community urged to assist

Police have appealed to the public for any information that could assist in identifying those responsible.

Anyone with relevant details has been urged to contact the investigating officer, Sergeant Solly Maluleke, on 073 730 3513, or to use the Crime Stop line at 08600 10111. Information can also be shared via the MySAPS app or at the nearest police station.

Funeral planned as family seeks answers

As investigations continue, Chauke’s family is preparing to lay him to rest on Saturday, 6 June 2026.

While the community mourns his death, questions remain unanswered about who was responsible and why a young man’s life ended so violently in the heart of the city.

Police say the search for those responsible will continue until arrests are made.

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