Emalahleni – In a space of a week, the Vosman police made a startling discovery of three decomposed bodies in a site that Eyethu Coal owns.
The first body was discovered around 9 a.m in an open field near Ferrobank in Hlalanikahle on 09 October 2025.
Just three hours later, police were called back after another body was discovered in the same open field, also belonging to an unknown African male. Both cases were initially handled separately, but inquest dockets have since been opened as part of ongoing investigations to determine the identities and causes of death.
The situation escalated on Sunday, 12 October, when a third body was found in the same field, intensifying community fears and speculation about possible foul play in the Ferrobank vicinity.
Police have since identified one of the deceased as Sfiso Mokwana while the other two remain unknown. DNA testing is underway to confirm their identities.
On Wednesday, 15 October, community members from Hlalanikahle Ward 4 approached Vosman SAPS for assistance in returning to the field for a follow-up search, fearing that more bodies could be buried in the area. The search was however interrupted when tensions broke out between community members and private security guards from Eyethu Coal.
“We are not happy because we, as the community, felt the need to come and search the premises, but our other brothers made things difficult when they chose to come and hustle,” said community member Xolani Mabaso, expressing frustrations after the confrontation that forced the police to stop the search.
Vosman Police Communications Officer Captain Mnisi confirmed that police accompanied the residents to the area but had to withdraw for safety reasons.
“Community members of Hlalanikahle had a concern regarding one of their own and asked that we accompany them to search the premises where the three bodies were found, which is in Eyethu Coal. We, as SAPS, are still investigating the matter. Unfortunately, we were met with difficulties in carrying out the search,” Mnisi said.
The discoveries have left the community calling for tighter security and more visible policing around Ferrobank, a hotspot for criminal activity.
“We appeal to members of the public who may have information that can help us identify the deceased or shed light on what happened to contact Vosman Police Station immediately,” said Captain Mnisi.
